Eye/UG Vienna warns: New further training money disadvantages parents!

Eye/UG Vienna warns: New further training money disadvantages parents!

On April 3, 2025, ANE ANGE/UG Vienna reports criticism of the planned conversion of educational leave into a "targeted model" of the further training allowance. According to AUGE/UG Vienna, the reform of Economic Minister Martin Hattmannsdorfer is described as positive and effective, while the union classifies the measure as a disdain of care work in Austria. The educational leave, which has closed numerous gaps, is considered important by many to enable parents during the care of their toddlers.

The updated legal situation is worrying. The educational leave will basically expire on March 31, 2025. A decision on the temporary abolition of the educational leave and the part -time education was already made in parliament on March 7, 2025. Until February 28, 2025, employees have the opportunity to arrange an educational leave with their employer, provided their educational measure begins by May 31, 2025. Educational career that has already been granted can only be continued, which increases uncertainty for many employees.

criticism of the change

eye/ug Vienna emphasizes that the switch to further training allowance could not take into account the needs of educating persons and that existing inequalities could tighten. Especially in the event of a lack of childcare places in Austria, which made it necessary to use educational leave, the question arises as to how the new regulation can meet the requirements of the employees.

that employers benefited from the previous option when employees completed further training during their maternity leave. In the current discussion it becomes clear that the reform may not only have disadvantages for employees, but also for companies.

Details on educational leave

For the use of educational leave, specific conditions apply. There must be an upright employment relationship and the employer must agree to the exemption. There is no legal claim to educational leave. During this time, employees can apply for further training money from the AMS, which is at least 14.53 euros a day. However, it must be ensured that further training is professionally relevant. The maximum additional earnings during the educational leave is 551.10 euros per month, with proof of participation in further training.

The minimum duration for the educational leave is two months, while employees can take a maximum of twelve months for the measure within four years. Further training must also include proof of at least 20 hours a week or 16 hours for parents with children under seven years.

expected effects and further steps

The implementation of the new regulations is still pending because the Federal Council's decision is pending. This means that the possibilities of the employees to apply for or continuing educational careers remain uncertain during the transition period. Appeals are therefore directed to politics by many sides to take into account the concerns of the employees, especially in an area that is directly linked to the compatibility of work and family.

Overall, it remains to be seen how the discussion about the reform of the further training allowance will develop and what specific measures are taken to meet the needs of care people. For many, this reform could have a decisive influence on their professional development and perspectives.

More information on the educational leave can be found on the Arbeiterkammer-s page and the AMS offer for further training allowance .