The budget, vaccination, and schools - this is what the government is planning now
On the first anniversary of the three-party coalition, Austria’s government presented its priorities for the first half of 2026, confirming that austerity measures will continue while new reforms in healthcare, education, and social policy are prepared.
Chancellor كريستيان شتوكر said inflation has dropped from around four percent to two percent and that economic growth is expected to reach 1.2 percent this year. He argued that government measures, especially in the energy sector, helped stabilize prices. Vice Chancellor أندرياس بابِل described the past year as one of hard compromises between ÖVP, SPÖ, and Neos, while Foreign Minister بيتا ماينل-رايزينغر said political friction was necessary to achieve progress.
A central focus will be a new double budget for 2027 and 2028, prepared by Finance Minister ماركوس مارتر باور. The goal is to reduce the budget deficit while maintaining room for economic relief. The coalition will also discuss lowering non-wage labor costs, provided the measures are fully financed without new debt.
In healthcare, the government plans to move forward with a broad reform package and introduce vaccinations in pharmacies. Health Minister كورينا شومان has been tasked with setting up this service, which is expected to start later this year. At the same time, an age limit for social media platforms such as TikTok is being prepared, and further steps to reduce bureaucracy are planned.
Additional reforms include making military service more attractive, strengthening the militia, and continuing debates on possible changes to civilian service. In education, the coalition wants more targeted funding, expanded language support, and streamlined curricula. Other priorities include creating a federal public prosecutor’s office, reforming social assistance linked to integration programs, and ensuring affordable living, economic growth, and strict security policies in the coming months.