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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 end-of-year festivities in the mountain resort of Crans Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Government Confirmation on Australian Injured Person

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian had been injured and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support.

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

He further stated, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is getting medical attention and the family is receiving support, Australian consular support. I am unable to provide more specifics for reasons of personal privacy. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Ongoing Inquiries

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade stated this morning it was providing consular assistance to the injured person and their family.

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 wounded and is in care following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are prevented from commenting further.”

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

Scope of Consular Assistance

Consular assistance can include:

• Reaching out to or attending hospitals in the area.
• Working with officials on site.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Assistance communicating with family members.

Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze

Authorities in Switzerland stated the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a bar popular with tourists called Le Constellation, which is located in the centre of the alpine resort.

Footage from the event reveals fierce orange flames from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Screams and loud music can be heard, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

Some people who died in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the severity of their burns.

Investigation into the Fire's Origin

Authorities confirmed the fire was not deliberately set for the blaze, which is thought to be the outcome of a mishap.

Advice for Worried Relatives

Australian nationals worried about loved ones potentially affected in the fire were told to phone the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on the number 1300 555 135.