ORF to implement major cuts and job reductions

Austrian public broadcaster ORF is facing significant restructuring due to a projected annual budget reduction of 93 million euros. This shortfall follows the federal government's decision to eliminate compensation for the loss of input tax deductions following the transition to the ORF contribution model.

Director General Ingrid Thurnher announced that the marketing subsidiary, OMC, will see the closure of the ORF-Shop and the ‘ORF-Stars’ department. The organization plans to reduce the number of executives and consolidate main departments. To manage the deficit, ORF has suspended payments to pension funds and is strictly evaluating all additional payments and special contracts.

Thurnher warned that not all current employees will retain their positions and noted that the organization may have to consider ‘zero-wage rounds’. Further considerations include the future of the ORF III channel, the sustainability of the orchestra, and potential program cancellations. The final budget for 2027 is expected to be decided by the Foundation Board on November 26.