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An Australian is among the 115 individuals wounded in a blaze that ripped through a packed nightclub during a New Year’s Eve party in the Alpine resort town of Crans Montana, killing 40 people.

Ministerial Statement on National Injured Person

A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian national was hurt and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the nation of Switzerland, the people involved,” 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, Australian consular support. I am unable to provide more specifics for reasons of personal privacy. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Department Assistance and Continued Efforts

The nation's foreign affairs department confirmed on Friday morning it was giving consular help to the injured person and their family.

A Dfat spokesperson said: “The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is providing consular assistance to the family of an Australian that has been injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are unable to provide further comment.”

The official continued, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with local authorities to determine whether any other Australians were impacted. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Such support may involve:

• Communicating with or visiting medical facilities.
• Working with officials on site.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Assistance communicating with family members.

Details of the Blaze

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

Footage from the event reveals fierce orange flames from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and a number of individuals were observed fallen outside the building.

Some people who died in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Investigation into the Fire's Origin

Swiss police said it was not a case of arson for the blaze, which is thought to be the consequence of an unintentional act.

Information for Concerned Australians

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