In the fight against housing and homelessness in Austria, the Ministry of Social Affairs presented a new project on Monday. With the nationwide program “Housing First,” 2,500 affected individuals will receive their own apartments over the next two years. A total of 1,200 apartments will be provided by non-profit housing associations and private providers, as stated in a press release.

Additionally, the number of counseling centers across the country will be increased. The newly presented program will follow the ongoing project “Housing first österreich – zuhause ankommen,” run by the Federal Association for Homeless Assistance (BAWO), active since 2021. Since then, over 1,800 homeless individuals have been able to move into 945 affordable apartments, according to the Ministry. The project was funded with approximately twelve million euros.

By the end of 2026, the Ministry of Social Affairs aims to allocate 20 million euros. “Homeless and housing-insecure people experience one of the worst forms of poverty. With this new program, we can offer more individuals a perspective for an independent life,” said Social Minister Johannes Rauch (Green Party).

According to current figures, around 20,000 women and men in Austria are affected by homelessness. The fight against homelessness was legally established for the first time last year, ensuring long-term funding.

The new initiative will continue to build on existing structures and facilities: social organizations that provide counseling and support to affected individuals before and after moving into their own apartments can continue their work. However, according to the Ministry of Social Affairs, the network of counseling facilities nationwide will be expanded. Organizations and associations interested in participating in the program can apply for involvement.

The program is based on the internationally successful “Housing First” principle: instead of staying in emergency shelters or transitional facilities, affected individuals will receive their own apartments directly. They will sign the lease themselves and must also pay the rent. The program will cover the security deposit and financing contributions. Often, individuals experiencing homelessness cannot manage the high fixed costs at the beginning of a move. Individual “start-up support” of up to 800 euros will assist with moving or initial purchases. Social workers will continue to support those affected.

“Housing is a fundamental right. Homelessness and housing insecurity are unacceptable in a country like Austria,” stated Rauch. The director of “Housing First Österreich” views the program as a significant achievement with an additional effect: new target groups will be reached. “Particularly hidden homeless women are eager to accept this support,” said Emine Özkan. “With this, we are taking another step away from managing homelessness in Austria. We are ending it sustainably,” Özkan added.