Government plans nationwide social assistance rules
Wednesday 9th September 2026 on 15:45 in
Austria
The Austrian government is preparing a nationwide reform of social assistance, but its impact on Carinthia remains unclear because key figures have not yet been provided, ORF reported.
About 4,150 people currently receive social assistance in Carinthia when they cannot fully cover their living expenses. Single adults receive 1,229 euros a month, with an additional 258 euros for each child. Single parents receive extra allowances.
Local residents account for 70 percent of recipients, followed by people granted asylum at 23 percent.
Draft law still pending
The future level of social assistance has not yet been set. Social Affairs Minister Korinna Schuhmann’s draft could bring changes mainly to the rates for children, with a minimum amount planned.
It is still unclear whether Carinthia would increase those amounts. Provincial Social Affairs Minister Gaby Schaunig of the Social Democratic Party said an assessment would only be possible once a draft law containing specific figures was available.
Charities warn of cuts
Organisations including Volkshilfe and Caritas have warned that the reform could lead to cuts. The child basic security scheme, which Carinthia has particularly advocated, does not appear to be included in the current reform plan.