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An Australian national is counted among the 115 individuals wounded in a blaze that ripped through a packed nightclub during a end-of-year festivities in the Alpine resort town of Crans Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Ministerial Statement on National Injured Person

A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian citizen was among the 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 nation of Switzerland, the victims and families,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He continued, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is receiving medical care and the family is receiving support, assistance from the Australian embassy. Further details cannot be shared for confidentiality obligations. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Department Response and Continued Efforts

The Australian DFAT confirmed on Friday morning it was providing consular assistance to the hurt national and their family.

A Dfat spokesperson 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 official continued, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with Swiss officials to establish if any other Australians were impacted. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Scope of Diplomatic Support

Such support may involve:

• Contacting or going to medical facilities.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Details of the Tragic Fire

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

Recordings of the tragedy shows orange flames billowing from inside the ground-floor 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 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 the fire was not deliberately set for the inferno, which is considered to be the outcome of a mishap.

Information for Worried Relatives

Australian nationals worried about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were instructed to contact the DFAT round-the-clock consular emergency line on the number 1300 555 135.