Generational change at the pensioners' association: Dworak follows Bauer in Lower Austria!

Generational change at the pensioners' association: Dworak follows Bauer in Lower Austria!

In a significant turning point, the Lower Austria Pensioners Association carried out a generational change in leadership today, March 21, 2025, at its state conference in St. Pölten. The long-time president Dr. Hannes Bauer, who led the association for over two decades, was overwhelmingly replaced by Rupert Dworak. Dworak, who was previously mayor of Ternitz, emphasized that his election also had to strengthen the voice of the older generation in society, because “without the commitment of pensioners, our society would not function,” as he explained. At the same time, Bauer was honored as honorary president and received from Dr. Peter Kostelka, the President of the PVÖ, was awarded the Great Golden PVÖ Decoration of Honor for his tireless commitment and the further development of the association during his term of office.

The Austrian Pensioners Association, founded on September 17, 1949, is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. This time is marked by significant socio-political successes in the fight against poverty in old age and strengthening the rights of older people. The writing of the General Social Security Act 1956 and the introduction of 13th and 14th pensions are just some of the achievements that the association had a significant influence on. The 42,000 members in Lower Austria can look forward to a strong advocacy group that continues to actively support the interests of older people, such as pvoe.at reported.

New President Dworak plans to continue the successful health work of his predecessor. He wants to create a comprehensive network of stroke units in the eastern region to ensure care for stroke patients. In addition, he expressed an urgent desire to shorten waiting times in the healthcare system, as, as a volunteer paramedic, he is confronted daily with the challenges posed by the current healthcare system. “I will be a loud voice for the 460,000 citizens of Lower Austria,” said Dworak. This type of commitment will continue to be crucial for the association, which continues to be considered one of the largest clubs in Austria after 75 years of continuous work.