On Tuesday, September 29, 2026, a closed-door political meeting was held to discuss the 'Sozialhilfe NEU' reform. The Ministry of Social Affairs described the talks as constructive, though specific details were not released and state officials were absent.
Social Minister Korinna Schumann's draft proposes nationwide minimum rates for children and fixed adult benefits. Key negotiation points include child payment scaling and an integration phase for able-bodied recipients receiving reduced basic benefits.
A legislative agreement is required by December 2026 for a January 1, 2027 launch. While the plan includes disability allowance increases, coalition partners ÖVP and NEOS have rejected proposed tax changes intended to fund a higher child supplement.