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One Australian is included in the 115 persons hurt in a blaze that ripped through a packed nightclub during a NYE celebration in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Ministerial Statement on Australian Casualty

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was receiving medical and consular assistance.

“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the Swiss people, the victims and families,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He continued, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is getting medical attention and the family is being assisted, support from Australian diplomats. I can’t go into any further details for reasons of personal privacy. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”

Department Response and Continued Efforts

The Australian DFAT confirmed on Friday morning it was providing consular assistance to the hurt national and their family.

A department representative said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support to the family members of an Australian citizen that has been hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are unable to provide further comment.”

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

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Consular assistance can include:

• Contacting or going to medical facilities.
• Working with officials on site.
• Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Details of the Blaze

Local police reported the fire started at about 1.30am, local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors called Le Constellation, which is located in the centre of the resort in Valais.

Footage from the event reveals fierce orange flames from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and several people were seen collapsed outside the building.

Some people who died in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Investigation into the Fire's Origin

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

Information for Worried Relatives

Australian nationals worried about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were instructed to contact the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300 555 135.