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An Australian national is counted among the 115 individuals wounded in a inferno that engulfed a packed nightclub during a end-of-year festivities in the mountain resort of Crans Montana, killing 40 people.

Ministerial Confirmation on National Casualty

A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday 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 individuals affected,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.

He added, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is receiving medical care and the family is receiving support, assistance from the Australian embassy. Further details cannot be shared for privacy reasons. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Ongoing Inquiries

The nation's foreign affairs department stated this morning it was offering diplomatic support to the injured person and their family.

A foreign affairs official said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to the relatives of an Australian national that has been injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are not in a position to give more details.”

The official continued, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with Swiss officials to establish if any further Australian nationals were involved. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Nature of Consular Assistance

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

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

Details of the Tragic Fire

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

Footage from the event shows orange flames billowing from inside the first-floor establishment. Cries and blaring music are audible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

Some people who died in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the seriousness of the burns.

Investigation into the Fire's Origin

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

Information for Worried Relatives

Citizens anxious regarding family members who may have been caught up in the fire were advised to call the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300 555 135.