New Federal Minister Act: Reform or administrative expansion?

New Federal Minister Act: Reform or administrative expansion?

In an important step, the Federal Council passed the new Federal Minister Act with a majority on March 13, 2025. This law, which results from the government program, regulates the division of department within the federal government. The new Council of Ministers consists of the Federal Chancellor, the Vice Chancellor and a total of 12 ministers, with the ÖVP and SPÖ each pending six ministries, and the NEOS two. There are also seven state secretaries. As apa-OTS are convinced that the focus of the government program is implemented well can.

However, there is also resistance. The FPÖ criticizes the "inflation" of the administration and criticizes a lack of savings will in the new government. She also fears that new confidentiality rules could restrict parliament's right to inspect the information of the ministries. In the division of the competencies of the former Ministry of Climate Protection, the Greens see a unfortunate mistake on three different ministries, such as wikipedia

important innovations in the law

The amendment also stipulates that future coordination of a minister at EU level needs the prior consent of the federal government. This is to avoid conflicts that occurred in the last legislative period. At the same time, the legal basis for cross -ministry commissions is created - a step that should enable more transparency and efficiency in the cooperation between the ministries. Andrea Eder-Giftschthaler from the ÖVP explained that the regulations would by no means circumcise the interpellation rights of the MPs, but would even expand it by the new Freedom of Information Act. An innovation that many observers consider overdue.

The discussion about the distribution of department is of great relevance for the new federal government, since it will be decisive for the implementation of its political agenda. The path to effective government work is now officially paved, but the opinion remains divided - while some see the amendment to the law as progress, others fear inefficient administration and a departure of proven climate protection measures.