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An Australian is among the 115 individuals wounded in a fire that tore through a busy tavern during a end-of-year festivities in the Alpine resort town of Crans Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Government Statement on National Injured Person

A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday that an Australian national was hurt and was receiving medical and consular assistance.

“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the nation of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is receiving medical care and the family is receiving support, assistance from the Australian embassy. Further details cannot be shared for reasons of personal privacy. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Continued Efforts

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed on Friday morning it was giving consular help to the hurt national and their family.

A foreign affairs official said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support to the relatives of an Australian national that has been hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are prevented from commenting further.”

The spokesperson added, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with Swiss officials to establish if any other Australians were impacted. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Consular assistance can include:

• Communicating with or visiting local hospitals.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Circumstances Surrounding the Tragic Fire

Local police reported the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation bar, which is located in the centre of the alpine resort.

Recordings of the tragedy reveals fierce orange flames from inside the ground-floor bar and lounge. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and a number of individuals were observed fallen outside the building.

Certain victims in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Investigation into the Blaze's Cause

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

Information for Concerned Australians

Citizens anxious regarding loved ones potentially affected in the fire were instructed to contact the DFAT round-the-clock consular emergency line on the number 1300 555 135.