The FPÖ has officially submitted a petition for a referendum to the Austrian Ministry of the Interior, aiming to abolish the ORF household levy. Media spokesperson Christian Hafenecker announced the move, which includes the launch of a dedicated website.
Hafenecker describes the levy as a compulsory tax, claiming it generates over 700 million euros annually. The party argues the ORF enjoys unfair financial privileges as a public service medium while failing to maintain objectivity, balance, and independence.
This referendum seeks to eliminate what the FPÖ calls a compulsory fee, citing a lack of impartiality in current broadcasting. The initiative marks a significant challenge to the funding structure of Austria's public broadcaster and its legal requirements.