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One Australian is included in the 115 people injured in a inferno that engulfed a busy tavern during a end-of-year festivities in the Swiss ski resort of Crans Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Government Confirmation on Australian Injured Person

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday that an Australian had been injured and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.

“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the people of Switzerland, the victims and families,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He added, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is receiving medical care and the family is being assisted, assistance from the Australian embassy. Further details cannot be shared for privacy reasons. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Ongoing Inquiries

The nation's foreign affairs department confirmed on Friday morning it was giving consular help 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 of an Australian that has been hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are prevented from commenting further.”

The representative further stated, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with Swiss officials to establish if any additional Australians were affected. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Scope of Diplomatic Support

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

• Contacting or going to medical facilities.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Support for reaching out to next of kin.

Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze

Authorities in Switzerland stated the fire started at about 1.30am, local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors called the Constellation, which is situated in the heart of the alpine resort.

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 blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the seriousness of the burns.

Cause and the Blaze's Cause

Authorities confirmed the fire was not deliberately set for the fire, which is believed to be the result of an accident.

Information for Worried Relatives

Australians concerned about loved ones potentially affected in the fire were instructed to contact Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on the number 1300 555 135.