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An Australian national is counted among the 115 people injured in a blaze that ripped 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

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian national was hurt and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the people of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.

He added, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is getting medical attention and the relatives are getting help, support from Australian diplomats. Further details cannot be shared for confidentiality obligations. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Department Assistance and Ongoing Inquiries

The nation's foreign affairs department confirmed on Friday morning it was offering diplomatic support to the affected individual and their relatives.

A department representative 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 injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are prevented from commenting further.”

The official continued, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with Swiss officials to ascertain if any additional Australians were affected. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”

Scope of Consular Assistance

Such support may involve:

• Communicating with or visiting hospitals in the area.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Details of the Blaze

Authorities in Switzerland stated the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation bar, which is located in the centre of the Valais resort.

Recordings of the tragedy reveals fierce orange flames from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

Certain victims in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the severity of their burns.

Cause and the Fire's Origin

Swiss police said it was not a case of arson for the inferno, which is considered to be the consequence of an unintentional act.

Information for Worried Relatives

Australian nationals worried about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were told to phone Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300-555-135.