Recent data reveals that every fifth teacher in Austria is currently employed on a fixed-term basis. At AHS and BMHS institutions, the number of fixed-term contracts now outweighs permanent ones for those working under the nation's new service law system.
Under this new service law, which became mandatory in 2019, part-time rates have surged. Over 60 percent of AHS teachers and 56 percent of combined AHS/BMHS staff work part-time, compared to 40 percent at compulsory schools and one-third under the old law.
The Ministry of Education cites parental leave claims as a primary driver for part-time shifts but lacks specific data on individual choices. Notably, 20 percent of compulsory school teachers remain on fixed-term contracts even after five years of service.