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One Australian is included in the 115 persons hurt in a inferno that engulfed a packed nightclub during a end-of-year festivities in the Alpine resort town of Crans Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Government Confirmation on Australian Injured Person

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian national was hurt and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.

“It is plainly a dreadful, dreadful disaster and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the people of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He added, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is obtaining hospital treatment and the family is receiving support, Australian consular support. 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 Continued Efforts

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed on Friday morning it was offering diplomatic support to the affected individual and their relatives.

A department representative said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to the family of an Australian that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are prevented from commenting further.”

The spokesperson added, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with local authorities to ascertain if any other Australians were impacted. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”

Scope of Diplomatic Support

Consular assistance can include:

• Contacting or going to local hospitals.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Assistance communicating with family members.

Details of the Blaze

Local police reported the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a bar popular with tourists called Le Constellation, which is situated in the heart of the alpine resort.

Recordings of the tragedy shows orange flames billowing from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying 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 Fire's Origin

Swiss police said the fire was not deliberately set for the blaze, which is thought to be the consequence of an unintentional act.

Advice for Concerned Australians

Australian nationals worried about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were told to phone the DFAT round-the-clock consular emergency line on 1300 555 135.