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An Australian is among the 115 persons hurt in a fire that tore through a packed nightclub during a New Year’s Eve party in the mountain resort of Crans-Montana, killing 40 people.

Government Confirmation on Australian Injured Person

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

“It is plainly a dreadful, dreadful disaster and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the Swiss people, the individuals affected,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is receiving medical care and the relatives are getting help, assistance from the Australian embassy. Further details cannot be shared for reasons of personal privacy. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Ongoing Inquiries

The nation's foreign affairs department stated this morning it was offering diplomatic support to the affected individual and their relatives.

A foreign affairs official said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support to the family of an Australian that has been hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are not in a position to give more details.”

The representative further stated, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with Swiss officials to determine whether any additional Australians were affected. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Nature of Consular Assistance

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

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

Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze

Swiss police said the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called the Constellation, which is located in the centre of the Valais resort.

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

A number of those who perished in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the severity of their burns.

Investigation into the Blaze's Cause

Investigators stated the fire was not deliberately set for the blaze, which is thought to be the result of an accident.

Information for Worried Relatives

Australians concerned about loved ones potentially affected in the fire were advised to call Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300-555-135.