Austrian Nationalrat resumes sessions with pension and family allowance reforms

The Austrian Nationalrat is resuming regular sessions with several key legislative items on the agenda. A primary focus is the introduction of ‘Aktivpension’, a measure designed to incentivize working beyond the legal retirement age. This proposal includes a monthly tax exemption of up to 1,250 euros, or 15,000 euros annually, for individuals who continue to work, including the self-employed.

Additionally, the parliament will address changes to family allowance (Familienbeihilfe). Under the new regulations, Ukrainian refugees will no longer receive these benefits if they remain in basic social care (Grundversorgung), a move intended to encourage labor market participation. However, exceptions may apply for families with significantly disabled children. Conversely, the new rules will remove the mandatory requirement for parents to be employed to receive family allowances and child benefits, a change that also benefits those with subsidiary protection status.

Initial sessions will include debates on skilled labor and employment with Social Minister Korinna Schumann, as well as a discussion on European policy requested by NEOS.