🔗 Share this article Australian Counted Among the Wounded in New Year’s Eve Blaze That Claimed the Lives of 40 in Switzerland's Ski Resort One Australian is included in the 115 people injured in a fire that tore through a packed nightclub during a New Year’s Eve party in the Swiss ski resort of Crans Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities. Ministerial Statement on Australian Injured Person A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian national was hurt and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid. “It is plainly a dreadful, dreadful disaster and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the Swiss people, the people involved,” Bowen told ABC RN radio. He added, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is getting medical attention and the relatives are getting help, assistance from the Australian embassy. I am unable to provide more specifics for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.” Department Response and Ongoing Inquiries The nation's foreign affairs department stated this morning it was providing consular assistance to the affected individual and their relatives. 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 hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are prevented from commenting further.” The spokesperson added, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with local authorities to establish if any additional Australians were affected. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.” Nature of Diplomatic Support Consular assistance can include: Reaching out to or attending hospitals in the area. Liaising with local authorities. Provision of lists of medical providers. Assistance communicating with family members. Circumstances Surrounding the Tragic Fire Local police reported the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation, which is located in the centre of the alpine resort. Video of the incident reveals fierce orange flames 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 fire have yet to be identified 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 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.