Reduction of asylum funds and increase in police funding
Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner (ÖVP) announced the details of his ministry's budget distribution for 2025, just two days before the anticipated budget speech by Finance Minister Markus Hartlauer (SPÖ). The estimated budget for the ministry is 4.85 billion euros, with notable changes in priorities.
The most significant cut in spending affects the asylum sector, with the budget allocated to it being reduced from 788 million euros last year to 693 million euros in 2025, representing a decrease of 94.2 million euros. Karner attributed this decline to the strict immigration policy in recent years, which has resulted in a decrease in the number of asylum applications and beneficiaries of basic care, currently numbering 62,400 people.
This decline is also reflected in the reduction of shelter centers, which decreased from more than 30 locations across the country to only eight. Some centers have been closed or are in the process of being closed in Leoben, Kindberg, Mondsee, and Semmering.
In contrast, the police budget will be raised from 4.011 billion to 4.155 billion euros, an increase of 100 million euros, which will be allocated to strengthen personnel, equipment, and infrastructure. Karner confirmed that internal security is a red line that is not subject to austerity, stating: "We will not save at the expense of security."
As for management, there will be clear austerity measures. Only one-third of the vacant positions in the central departments will be filled, and training programs that are not directly related to police work will be reduced, along with a reduction in representative activities, public relations, and official trips.
The government vehicle fleet will undergo a comprehensive review aimed at identifying potential savings in purchasing and operation. Given the ongoing trend towards reducing asylum costs, the ministry expects the budget in this area to decrease again in 2026 to reach 621 million euros, which is considered the lowest historically and reflects the ministry's general direction in the coming years.