375,730 unemployed: Rise in August primarily affects women
At the end of August, 375,730 people were registered as unemployed or in training with the Public Employment Service (AMS) in Austria. This is an increase of 2.3 percent compared to the previous year and about 3.2 percent more than in July, when there were 364,200 people. The unemployment rate rose by 0.2 percentage points to 7.2 percent. It is the 41st consecutive month of rising figures.
The increase is distributed very unevenly. Among men, unemployment fell by 0.8 percent, while among women it rose by 5.8 percent. The AMS cites two reasons for this: the gradual increase in the statutory retirement age for women, which means more women over 60 end up in unemployment instead of retiring, and developments in sectors with a high proportion of women. In the healthcare and social services sectors as well as in retail, unemployment is rising significantly more than the average. Conversely, the recovery of the construction industry is having a positive effect on men. Long-term unemployment is also continuing to rise.
For immigrant job seekers, a second point from the same announcement is more important than the total number. The Minister of Labor has given the AMS new targets, and these explicitly focus on three groups: women, young people, and immigrants. Those registered with the AMS can therefore expect more placement offers, courses, and appointments in the coming months. Such invitations are not a recommendation: anyone who misses an AMS appointment or an assigned measure without a valid reason risks having their unemployment benefits suspended.
Two practical tips that are worth money right now. First: If you take up employment, you must report this to the AMS on time. Since September 1st, late reporting can result in benefits already received being reclaimed for at least six weeks. Therefore, report your first day of work immediately, not just when you receive your first payslip. Second: If your address, residence permit, account number, or care obligations change, inform the AMS immediately as well. Changes can be reported via your eAMS account, by telephone, or in person at the branch office. Anyone who is unsure which reporting obligation applies in their case should ask the responsible AMS office directly and request the information in writing.