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One Australian is included in the 115 people injured in a inferno that engulfed a busy tavern during a New Year’s Eve party in the Swiss ski resort of Crans Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Government Confirmation on Australian Casualty

A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday that an Australian national was hurt and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support.

“It is plainly a dreadful, dreadful disaster and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the nation of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He continued, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is getting medical attention and the family is being assisted, support from Australian diplomats. Further details cannot be shared for confidentiality obligations. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Ongoing Inquiries

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade verified early Friday it was offering diplomatic support to the hurt national and their family.

A foreign affairs official said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to the family members of an Australian citizen that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are prevented from commenting further.”

The official continued, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with authorities on the ground to establish if any other Australians were impacted. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Scope of Consular Assistance

Consular assistance can include:

• Communicating with or visiting medical facilities.
• Working with officials on site.
• Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze

Swiss police said the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a bar popular with tourists called the Constellation, which is situated in the heart of the resort in Valais.

Video of the incident shows orange flames billowing from inside the ground-floor bar and lounge. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

A number of those who perished in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Investigation into the Fire's Origin

Swiss police said it was not a case of arson for the blaze, which is thought to be the result of an accident.

Information for Worried Relatives

Australians concerned about loved ones potentially affected in the fire were told to phone Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300-555-135.