Vienna – Negotiations are underway regarding a tiered pension increase in Austria, with the government aiming for a potential agreement this week, according to reports in Die Presse. While a target of two percent for pension increases has been discussed, a social graduation – adjusting increases based on pension amount – is gaining traction.
Vice-Chancellor Andreas Babler (SPÖ) emphasized that any increase should not disadvantage lower-income pensioners, stating it is “inconceivable that you get very far down.” Other SPÖ representatives have advocated for full 2.7 percent increases for small and medium-sized pensioners,without specifying exact figures. Carinthian Governor and SPÖ boss peter Kaiser proposed setting a limit based on the median pension.
ÖGB President Wolfgang Katzian also supports a tiered approach, suggesting 2.7 percent for the “majority” of pensioners, noting that previous increases have already been graded by pension amount. Kronen Zeitung reported that the social staggering is essentially decided, with ongoing discussions about specific thresholds and percentages.
Transport Minister Peter hanke acknowledged a graduation as “one of the options” during an ORF appearance, stressing the need for ”a sense of savings.” SPÖ Federal Managing Director Klaus Raußheim reiterated the call for full adaptation for small and medium-sized pensioners.
hanke described the situation as “not easy,” but emphasized the importance of dialog for the sake of the country’s financial stability and economy, adding, “But it takes partners for that.”
No official confirmation of negotiation rounds or a timeline for agreement has been issued by government sources.
