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One Australian is included in the 115 people injured in a fire that tore through a busy tavern during a end-of-year festivities in the mountain resort of Crans Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Ministerial Statement on Australian Injured Person

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the people of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is getting medical attention and the relatives are getting help, assistance from the Australian embassy. Further details cannot be shared for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Department Assistance and Continued Efforts

The Australian DFAT confirmed on Friday morning it was offering diplomatic support to the injured person and their family.

A Dfat spokesperson said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support 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 unable to provide further comment.”

The official continued, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with Swiss officials to ascertain if any further Australian nationals were involved. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Consular assistance can include:

• Communicating with or visiting medical facilities.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
• Support for reaching out to next of kin.

Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze

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

Video of the incident reveals fierce orange flames from inside the ground-floor bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and several people were seen collapsed 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 Blaze's Cause

Authorities confirmed the fire was not deliberately set for the blaze, which is thought to be the consequence of an unintentional act.

Advice for Concerned Australians

Australian nationals worried about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were told to phone Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300 555 135.