Austrian coalition moves toward tighter welfare rules with new waiting period

The Austrian coalition is nearing a consensus on a major social-welfare reform that would introduce a reduced-benefit period for newcomers during an integration phase. ÖVP secretary-general Markus Gstöttner described the change as the final step toward a comprehensive overhaul, while Chancellor Christian Stocker highlighted recent advances after a top-level meeting. Vice-Chancellor Andreas Babler and Neos foreign minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger affirmed that the parties are aligned, though details remain undisclosed.

The draft aims to lower assistance for individuals who have never paid into the system until they complete employment and language training, a core ÖVP demand. Legal experts warn the measure could face constitutional scrutiny, and the EU's new status regulation adds complexity to its implementation. The bill is slated for parliamentary review before the end of the year, with the goal of taking effect at the start of the next calendar year.