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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 Statement on Australian Casualty

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian had been injured and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the people of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is obtaining hospital treatment and the relatives are getting help, assistance from the Australian embassy. I am unable to provide more specifics for reasons of personal privacy. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Ongoing Inquiries

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. Owing to our privacy obligations we are prevented from commenting further.”

The representative further stated, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with Swiss officials to ascertain if any other Australians were impacted. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Consular assistance can include:

• Communicating with or visiting local hospitals.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Assistance communicating with family members.

Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze

Local police reported the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., 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 first-floor establishment. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and a number of individuals were observed fallen outside the building.

A number of those who perished in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the severity of their burns.

Investigation into the Blaze's Cause

Authorities confirmed it was not a case of arson for the fire, which is believed to be the result of an accident.

Advice for Concerned Australians

Australians concerned about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were advised to call Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300-555-135.