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An Australian is among 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, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Ministerial Confirmation on Australian Casualty

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian had been injured and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the people of Switzerland, the people involved,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is obtaining hospital treatment and the relatives are getting help, support from Australian diplomats. I am unable to provide more specifics for confidentiality obligations. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Continued Efforts

The Australian DFAT stated this morning it was providing consular assistance to the affected individual and their relatives.

A department representative said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support to the family of an Australian that has been injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment.”

The representative further stated, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with local authorities to establish if any additional Australians were affected. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Scope of Consular Assistance

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

• Reaching out to or attending medical facilities.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze

Authorities in Switzerland stated the fire started at about 1.30am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called the Constellation, which is found in the downtown area of the Valais resort.

Video of the incident depicts orange fire raging 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 seriousness of the burns.

Cause and the Fire's Origin

Swiss police said arson was not responsible for the fire, which is believed to be the outcome of a mishap.

Advice for Concerned Australians

Australian nationals worried about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were advised to call Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300 555 135.