
Austria’s federal government and the government of Lower Austria announced on Sunday that they would increase financial aid for victims following the devastating floods earlier this month.
The announcement comes after the EU Commission pledged €500 million to Austria as part of flood relief efforts. Combined with EU funds and resources from the Austrian Disaster Fund, a total of €1.5 billion is now available to provide swift help, repair the damage, and rebuild destroyed infrastructure.
The compensation rate for flood victims will rise from the current minimum of 20% to at least 50%, with compensation in hardship cases reaching up to 80%.
The federal government stressed that other affected states in Austria could also increase their compensation rates. “The key is to provide swift assistance and reassure people that the support will reach them. We won’t leave anyone behind,” said Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer.