Personal Assistance: Changes Ahead for Lower Austria

In Lower Austria, starting from 2026, the subsidy for Personal Assistance in the leisure sector will be increased, and the circle of eligible individuals will be expanded. The eligibility requirement will be lowered from care level five to four, and people with severe sensory impairments will be newly included in the target group. The subsidy per assistance hour will rise from 22 to 24 euros. According to a press release, the changes will be decided in the state government meeting next Tuesday.

Teschl-Hofmeister sees "clear signal"

"Despite the strained budget situation, it was a concern to expand the offer," stated the state press service release on Friday. In the future, neither attending a day center nor having an adult representation will pose an obstacle. "Personal Assistance enables people with disabilities to gain independence in everyday life - and that is exactly our goal," explained State Councilor Susanne Rosenkranz (FPÖ). State Councilor Christiane Teschl-Hofmeister (ÖVP) described the changes as a "clear signal - to those affected as well as to those who stand by their side every day."

Calls for reform of Personal Assistance

Recently, there have been calls from several sides for a reform of Personal Assistance. The subsidy of 22 euros per hour in Lower Austria has not been increased since 2003, criticized the WAG Assistance Cooperative non-profit e.Gen., the Greens, and the SPÖ.

(APA/Red)

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