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An Australian is among the 115 people injured in a inferno that engulfed a crowded bar during a New Year’s Eve party in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Government Statement on National Casualty

A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday 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 nation of Switzerland, the people involved,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is obtaining hospital treatment and the relatives are getting help, support from Australian diplomats. I can’t go into any further details for reasons of personal privacy. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Ongoing Inquiries

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

A Dfat spokesperson 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 wounded and is in care following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are not in a position to give more details.”

The spokesperson added, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with Swiss officials to establish if any other Australians were impacted. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Nature of Consular Assistance

Such support may involve:

• Communicating with or visiting local hospitals.
• Working with officials on site.
• Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
• Assistance communicating with family members.

Circumstances Surrounding the Tragic Fire

Authorities in Switzerland stated the fire started at about 1.30am, local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors called Le Constellation bar, which is located in the centre of the Valais resort.

Video of the incident shows orange flames billowing from inside the first-floor establishment. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

Some people who died in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Cause and the Fire's Origin

Swiss police said it was not a case of arson for the fire, which is believed to be the result of an accident.

Information for Worried Relatives

Citizens anxious regarding family members who may have been caught up in the fire were instructed to contact the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on the number 1300 555 135.