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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, killing 40 people.

Ministerial Statement on Australian Casualty

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian had been injured and was receiving medical and consular assistance.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the nation of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is getting medical attention and the family is being assisted, support from Australian diplomats. Further details cannot be shared for privacy reasons. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Continued Efforts

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

A department representative said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to the relatives of an Australian national that has been wounded and is in care 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 ascertain if any additional Australians were affected. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Consular assistance can include:

• Contacting or going to medical facilities.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Support for reaching out to next of kin.

Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze

Local police reported the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a bar popular with tourists called the Constellation, which is situated in the heart of the alpine resort.

Footage from the event reveals fierce orange flames from inside the ground-floor bar and lounge. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and several people were seen collapsed outside the building.

Certain victims in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Cause and the Fire's Origin

Investigators stated it was not a case of arson for the blaze, which is thought to be the consequence of an unintentional act.

Information for Concerned Australians

Australians concerned about loved ones potentially affected in the fire were instructed to contact the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300 555 135.