On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the new Minister for Women, Eva-Maria Holzleitner (SPÖ), began her press conference by declaring, “Yes, I am a feminist,” which marked a clear distinction from her predecessor. She emphasized that feminism advocates for a “humane future.” Holzleitner highlighted key measures from the government program, such as protection against violence, including electronic ankle bracelets for high-risk offenders, and a national action plan against violence towards women. She also proposed a “Dick-Pic law” criminalizing the unsolicited sending of explicit images.

In terms of equal pay, Holzleitner proposed wage transparency, requiring companies to justify unequal salaries or adjust them accordingly. She also supported a guarantee of alimony payments, ensuring women and children don’t have to wait long for financial support. Furthermore, she backed tax exemptions for women’s hygiene products and contraceptives.

Holzleitner’s previous demands, like a legal right to childcare from the first year of life and the removal of abortion from the criminal code, were not included in the government program, though she said these issues remain her goals. She clarified that the SPÖ does not have a single-party government.

The NEOS party criticized the “Herdprämie” (a stay-at-home subsidy) and its implications for women’s financial independence. The Austrian Trade Union Federation (ÖGB) called for family-friendly working hours and equal access to childcare, while the Austrian Senior Citizens’ Council expressed concerns over the planned increase in healthcare contributions for pensioners, which they argue disproportionately affects women.