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An Australian national is counted among the 115 persons hurt in a inferno that engulfed a packed nightclub during a New Year’s Eve party in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Ministerial Confirmation on Australian Casualty

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.

“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the people of Switzerland, the victims and families,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He continued, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is receiving medical care and the family is being assisted, Australian consular support. Further details cannot be shared for reasons of personal privacy. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Ongoing Inquiries

The Australian DFAT 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 members of an Australian citizen that has been injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are prevented from commenting further.”

The official continued, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with Swiss officials to establish if any further Australian nationals were involved. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”

Scope of Diplomatic Support

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

• Reaching out to or attending medical facilities.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Swiss police said the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors called the Constellation, which is situated in the heart of the Valais resort.

Recordings of the tragedy depicts orange fire raging from inside the first-floor establishment. Cries and blaring music are audible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

Certain victims in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the seriousness of the burns.

Cause and the Fire's Origin

Authorities confirmed the fire was not deliberately set for the inferno, which is considered to be the outcome of a mishap.

Information for Worried Relatives

Citizens anxious regarding loved ones potentially affected in the fire were told to phone the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300-555-135.