100 days after joining Austria’s federal government, NEOS outlined a series of reforms reflecting its priorities in education, economic modernisation and foreign engagement.
Under Minister of Education Christoph Wiederkehr, the government launched a nationwide catch-up campaign, doubling funding for German language support and creating 4,000 new training spots for early childhood educators, while measures to reduce bureaucracy in schools and introduce orientation classes across the country are also underway.
On the economic front, the coalition introduced a tax-free performance bonus of up to €1,000 per employee, expanded apprenticeship options, and presented a pension reform aimed at long-term sustainability. Secretary of State for Simplification Josef Schellhorn heads the dedicated office to reduce bureaucracy and streamline services for SMEs.
Under party leader and federal Minister of Foreign Affairs Beate Meinl-Reisinger, NEOS also played a role in shaping Austria’s foreign policy by launching a new foreign and security strategy, a peace and reconstruction initiative for Ukraine, and new impetus for Austria’s bid for a seat on the UN Security Council.
Meinl-Reisinger commented that while challenges remain, the party’s first 100 days in office show early efforts to deliver on key commitments and strengthen Austria’s role in Europe.
"As the federal government, we found ourselves in an extremely difficult financial and economic situation. We have embarked on a race to catch up in education, consolidated Austria's role in Europe and the world, and begun to relieve the burden on people, businesses, and the state where outdated structures and unnecessary bureaucracy are hampering freedom and growth. The challenges we face have allowed no grace period in the first 100 days. The plans and ambitions we are pursuing will leave no room for half measures in the coming years,” she said.
The three-party coalition between Austrian conservatives, social democrats and liberals already succeeded in launching and adopting numerous measures from the government program.
These include a restructure of the national budget, increase in bank levy, extension of the energy crisis contribution until 2030 and a rent freeze to regulate the housing market.