Government Program: What's Coming in Party Funding

The future federal government consisting of ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS does not plan to increase party funding next year. The "suspension of valorization" for 2026 is stipulated in the government program presented on Thursday. Politicians' salaries are also to be reformed in a process "under the leadership of a universally recognized person." Additionally, under the administration section, the "evaluation and closing of gaps in the party law" is planned.

Inflation Influences Party Funding

Federal party funding is usually increased annually by the inflation rate of the previous year. At the beginning of 2025, the total amount increased by 2.9 percent to 38 million euros based on data from Statistics Austria. At that time, the NEOS demanded a "significant reduction." According to the last election result, the FPÖ receives the largest share of the funding.

According to the government agreement, a "mandatory hearing of designated members of the federal government before the National Council" is also planned. This should take place before the swearing-in by the Federal President. However, this does not yet apply to the coalition now planned, it was said. First, the corresponding law must be changed.

The party law is to be revised by the Black-Red-Pink coalition "with the involvement of experts." Required reports from the parties should in the future be submitted only once a year instead of four times. Additional "prohibition options" in party law are also to be examined.

"Recognized Person" Unknown

Regarding politicians' salaries, the coalition wants to refer to "international models" and adjust the regulations. Specific plans are not yet available here, and the "recognized person" is not further described.

(APA/Red)

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