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One Australian is included in the 115 persons hurt in a fire that tore through a packed nightclub during a NYE celebration in the mountain resort of Crans Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Ministerial Statement on Australian Casualty

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian had been injured and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.

“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the nation of Switzerland, the victims and families,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.

He added, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is getting medical attention and the relatives are getting help, assistance from the Australian embassy. Further details cannot be shared for confidentiality obligations. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Ongoing Inquiries

The Australian DFAT verified early Friday it was giving consular help 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 relatives of an Australian national that has been hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are prevented from commenting further.”

The official continued, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with local authorities to ascertain if any other Australians were impacted. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Scope of Diplomatic Support

Consular assistance can include:

• Reaching out to or attending local hospitals.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Local police reported the fire started at about 1.30am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation, which is found in the downtown area of the resort in Valais.

Footage from the event shows orange flames billowing from inside the first-floor establishment. Screams and loud music can be heard, and a number of individuals were observed fallen outside the building.

A number of those who perished in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the severity of their burns.

Investigation into the Fire's Origin

Swiss police said arson was not responsible for the inferno, which is considered to be the result of an accident.

Advice for Concerned Australians

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