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One Australian is included in the 115 individuals wounded in a blaze that ripped through a busy tavern during a end-of-year festivities in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Ministerial Statement on Australian Injured Person

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday that an Australian citizen was among the injured 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,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.

He continued, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is receiving medical care and the relatives are getting help, support from Australian diplomats. Further details cannot be shared for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Continued Efforts

The nation's foreign affairs department verified early Friday it was providing consular assistance to the injured person and their family.

A department representative 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 injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are unable to provide further comment.”

The spokesperson added, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with Swiss officials to establish if any further Australian nationals were involved. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”

Nature of Consular Assistance

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

• Reaching out to or attending hospitals in the area.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze

Authorities in Switzerland stated the fire started at about 1.30am, local time, in a bar popular with tourists called Le Constellation, which is located in the centre of the alpine resort.

Footage from the event depicts orange fire raging from inside the first-floor establishment. Screams and loud music can be heard, and a number of individuals were observed fallen outside the building.

A number of those who perished in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the seriousness of the burns.

Cause and the Fire's Origin

Swiss police said the fire was not deliberately set for the fire, which is believed to be the result of an accident.

Information for Concerned Australians

Australians concerned about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were instructed to contact the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300 555 135.