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An Australian national is counted among the 115 individuals wounded in a fire that tore through a crowded bar during a New Year’s Eve party in the Alpine resort town of Crans Montana, killing 40 people.

Government Confirmation on National Injured Person

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian had been injured and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support.

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

He continued, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is getting medical attention and the family is being assisted, assistance from the Australian embassy. I am unable to provide more specifics for privacy reasons. 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: “The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is providing consular assistance to the relatives of an Australian national that has been injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment.”

The representative further stated, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with authorities on the ground to ascertain if any further Australian nationals were involved. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Scope of Diplomatic Support

Such support may involve:

• Reaching out to or attending local hospitals.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Assistance communicating with family members.

Details of the Blaze

Swiss police said the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors called Le Constellation bar, 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. Screams and loud music can be heard, 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 seriousness of the burns.

Investigation into the Fire's Origin

Swiss police said it was not a case of arson for the inferno, which is considered to be the outcome of a mishap.

Information for Concerned Australians

Citizens anxious regarding relatives who might have been involved in the fire were told to phone the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on the number 1300 555 135.