New rules prohibit part-time work for the unemployed
In a controversial move, the Austrian government announced new changes regarding the possibility of part-time work (marginal employment – geringfügige Beschäftigung) for the unemployed. This announcement came on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, during a press conference held by Minister of Economy Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer (from the ÖVP party). The minister described the current laws as "discouraging performance" and delaying the return of the unemployed to the labor market.
The new amendments mean that many people receiving unemployment benefits (Arbeitslosengeld) will no longer be allowed to work in part-time jobs in the future. The aim of this step, according to the minister, is to encourage the unemployed to return more quickly to the regular labor market instead of relying on limited income from part-time jobs.
But the laws will not cover everyone, as there are exceptions for certain groups, including: Long-term unemployed (Langzeitarbeitslose) Older unemployed workers, for a period of six months People who were already working in part-time jobs before becoming unemployed
In contrast, Minister of Social Affairs Korinna Schumann (from the SPÖ party) described the labor market as "surprisingly stable" despite the long period of economic recession the country is experiencing. However, she emphasized the importance of taking additional measures and announced the continuation of the nursing grant (Pflegestipendium) despite the financial challenges facing the government.
The new decisions are expected to spark widespread discussion in social and political circles, especially among those who rely on part-time jobs as a means of survival in the labor market during periods of unemployment.