Austria government cabinet costs reach 120,000 euros daily

The Austrian government's cabinet personnel costs reached 10.9 million euros in the second quarter of this year, averaging approximately 121,000 euros per day. These figures represent an increase from the 10.6 million euros spent in the first quarter. The reported costs cover administrative staff and advisors, excluding the salaries of ministers and state secretaries.

A shift in spending patterns shows that the Vice Chancellor's office has overtaken the Chancellor's office as the most expensive cabinet. While the Chancellor's office costs are significant, the office of Vice Chancellor Andreas Babler (SPÖ) currently leads in expenditures.

The rising costs have sparked political criticism, particularly from the FPÖ. General Secretary Michael Schnedlitz accused the government of losing all sense of decency, arguing that spending is increasing despite austerity measures being applied to families and pensioners.

Projected annual costs for cabinet personnel are estimated at 43.6 million euros. This is higher than the 40.9 million euros projected for the previous government and a notable increase from the 32.7 million euros recorded in 2020.