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An Australian national is counted among the 115 people injured in a inferno that engulfed a packed nightclub during a New Year’s Eve party in the mountain resort of Crans-Montana, killing 40 people.

Ministerial Statement on National Injured Person

A senior Australian government minister, 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 am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the Swiss people, the victims and families,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is getting medical attention and the family is receiving support, Australian consular support. I am unable to provide more specifics for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Department Assistance and Ongoing Inquiries

The nation's foreign affairs department verified early Friday it was providing consular assistance to the injured person and their family.

A foreign affairs official said: “The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is providing consular assistance 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 not in a position to give more details.”

The official continued, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with local authorities to establish if any further Australian nationals were involved. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Such support may involve:

• Contacting or going to local hospitals.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Support for reaching out to next of kin.

Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze

Authorities in Switzerland stated the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation, which is situated in the heart of the Valais resort.

Footage from the event reveals fierce orange flames from inside the first-floor establishment. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and several people were seen collapsed 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.

Cause and the Fire's Origin

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

Information for Worried Relatives

Australian nationals worried about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were told to phone the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on the number 1300 555 135.