Labor staffer dies in Bolivian bus crash

Media adviser Kurt Steel has been remembered by family and political bosses for his dedication and positivity after he was killed in a bus crash in Bolivia.

The Canberran media adviser to ACT Treasurer Andrew Barr was among nine tourists killed and 24 people injured in the accident.

The bus was returning from a visit to the country's famed Salar de Uyuni salt flats, when it overturned just before dawn on Saturday.

Mr Steel, aged 25, had been on a six-week holiday through South America.

Older brother Chris Steel says he is devastated.

"Our family is devastated from the loss of my younger brother," he tweeted.

"Thank you for the msgs (sic) of support."

The family paid tribute to their son and brother in a statement.

"We love you Kurt and we'll miss you forever," they said.

"You were so happy and full of life every moment we spent with you."

Treasurer Mr Barr said he was still in shock over his colleague's death.

"There are no words that can cushion us from the shock, the sadness and the immense grief being felt today at the loss of our friend Kurt Steel," he posted on Facebook.

"Kurt was a professional, highly respected and dedicated leader in my office, the ACT Government and the Labor Party.

"He will be sorely missed and impossible to replace."

In a statement, both Mr Barr and Chief Minister Katy Gallagher remembered the adviser for his dedication.

"He was a natural leader who always had a smile on his face and took a positive approach to work and life," they said.

"Our thoughts are with his family and also those who have been affected by this tragic accident."

Opposition leader Bill Shorten said Mr Steel had been highly respected.

"Kurt was a popular and hugely respected member of the Labor team," Mr Shorten said in a statement on Sunday.

"His passion for Labor and our party's cause was truly awesome.

"This is incredibly sad news.

"He'll be missed by so many of us."

A second Australian was among those injured.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was providing consular assistance to both travellers' families.