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One Australian is included in the 115 individuals wounded in a blaze that ripped through a busy tavern during a NYE celebration in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Government Statement on National Injured Person

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian national was hurt and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.

“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the people of Switzerland, the people involved,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He added, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is getting medical attention and the family is being assisted, Australian consular support. Further details cannot be shared for privacy reasons. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Continued Efforts

The nation's foreign affairs department confirmed on Friday morning it was providing consular assistance to the affected individual and their relatives.

A foreign affairs official said: “The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is providing consular assistance 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 not in a position to give more details.”

The official continued, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with authorities on the ground to ascertain if any other Australians were impacted. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Scope of Diplomatic Support

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

• Communicating with or visiting medical facilities.
• Working with officials on site.
• Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
• Support for reaching out to next of kin.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Local police reported the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors called Le Constellation, which is located in the centre of the resort in Valais.

Recordings of the tragedy depicts orange fire raging from inside the first-floor establishment. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and a number of individuals were observed fallen outside the building.

Certain victims in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Investigation into the Blaze's Cause

Investigators stated arson was not responsible for the inferno, which is considered to be the outcome of a mishap.

Information for Worried Relatives

Australian nationals worried about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were advised to call the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300 555 135.