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One Australian is included in the 115 persons hurt in a inferno that engulfed a crowded bar during a NYE celebration in the Alpine resort town of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Government Confirmation on Australian 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 I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the Swiss people, the victims and families,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.

He continued, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is getting medical attention and the relatives are getting help, support from Australian diplomats. I am unable to provide more specifics for reasons of personal privacy. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Ongoing Inquiries

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

A Dfat spokesperson said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support to the relatives of an Australian national that has been injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are not in a position to give more details.”

The representative further stated, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with Swiss officials to establish if any additional Australians were affected. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Consular assistance can include:

• Contacting or going to local hospitals.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• 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 bar, which is situated in the heart of the alpine resort.

Video of the incident reveals fierce orange flames from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and a number of individuals were observed fallen outside the building.

Some people who died in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the severity of their burns.

Cause and the Fire's Origin

Authorities confirmed the fire was not deliberately set for the inferno, which is considered to be the outcome of a mishap.

Advice for Worried Relatives

Australians concerned about loved ones potentially affected in the fire were told to phone the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300 555 135.