Villach and Graz: Relief Fund Established for Victims and Survivors

For the victims of the rampage in Graz in June and the terrorist attack in Villach in February 2025, the Ministry of Social Affairs, together with the crime victim support "White Ring," has set up an aid fund. The Republic is providing 15 million euros for the "Aid Fund for the Support of Victims and Crimes of Particular Severity and Magnitude." The crime victim support "White Ring" confirmed a contribution in the Ö1 midday journal on Thursday to the APA.

Financial Support After Severe Misfortunes

The project is carried out and managed by the "White Ring" on behalf of the Ministry of Social Affairs. The fund provides one-time financial support for individuals who have received a positive decision under the Crime Victims Act (VOG) due to one of the incidents. Funeral and repatriation costs for those who died in the attacks are also covered.

Amount of Support Varies Individually

"Attacks of this magnitude are an assault on society as a whole and the utmost form of situational violence. They therefore trigger a particular insecurity among a large number of people. Especially in connection with such acts, there is a special responsibility to be there for those affected and to support them as best as possible," said Caroline Kerschbaumer, Managing Director of "White Ring."

The amount of financial support will be determined individually - based on a recommendation from a five-member panel of experts. It will consider the extent to which the affected person was exposed to the act and what physical or psychological injuries they have suffered. Each case will be examined individually and carefully. The panel will meet for the first time on Thursday for its inaugural session. The project will run for about four years, from November 2025 to September 2029.

Project Runs for Four Years

The overall concept for the fund also includes a plan to support the victims of the rampage in Graz in coping with the consequences and to provide them with psychosocial support and strengthen their resilience. "We want to show all those affected that they are not alone. Those who need support after experiencing these acts of violence and possibly a loss can turn to us," emphasized Susanne Kammerhofer, victim support staff member of the "White Ring" in Graz.

(APA/Red)

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