The framework for disability policy has changed fundamentally in recent decades. Today, the focus is on a human rights and an equality-based approach. In 2008, Austria signed the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (accompanying document to the translation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities), which sets new standards with regard to the rights of people with disabilities. The EU is also pursuing a human rights-based approach as part of the EU Disability Strategy 2021-2030.
To implement the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Austria has had a comprehensive national strategy, the National Action Plan on Disability, since 2012. This plan sets out longer-term disability policy objectives and measures.
Disability affects many areas of life and therefore involves multiple legal domains as well as the responsibilities of both the federal government and the federal provinces. At the federal level, the Ministry of Social Affairs is primarily responsible for matters relating to people with disabilities, and it sets key initiatives for people with disabilities within its remit. The focus is on professional participation and equal opportunities for people with disabilities. Regardless of this, the principle of disability mainstreaming applies: each government department must take into account the interests of people with disabilities within its area of responsibility.
Three central legal instruments are available here: the Disability Employment Act, the Federal Disability Discrimination Act and the Federal Disability Equality Act.
The central point of contact for people with disabilities is the Sozialministeriumservice with its nine regional offices in the provincial capitals. One of the main tasks of the Sozialministeriumservice is promoting the professional participation of people with disabilities.
However, many areas that are essential for people with disabilities fall within the competence of the federal provinces. This includes social support services, housing and leisure.
Below you will find detailed information on the laws and rights of people with disabilities:
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is an international treaty. In the so-called UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the signatory states undertake to guarantee and promote the full realization of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for all persons with disabilities - without discrimination of any kind.
Detailed information on the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is available on the following page:
The National Action Plan on Disability (NAP Disability) is the federal government's long-term strategy for implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. You can find more information on this under the following link:
Disability equality law primarily comprises the Federal Disability Equality Act, which covers everyday life, and specific provisions in the Disability Employment Act that apply to the world of work.
Protection against discrimination applies to people with disabilities and to people close to them (for example relatives).
To claim protection against discrimination, a disability does not have to be officially confirmed. However, the discrimination must relate to the disability. You can find more information on the websites of the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection and the Sozialministeriumservice.
If someone feels discriminated against, the first port of call is the Sozialministeriumervice. They will try to resolve the problem through mediation. The Disability Ombudsperson offers help with legal issues. Their aim is to advise and provide support in cases of disability-related discrimination.
Under the following link you can find details on the advice centres for people with disabilities, including the contact details of the Disability Ombudsperson.
People with disabilities may face various different barriers. Ensuring their inclusion in all areas of life, including education and employment, requires a strong focus on accessibility.
Further information on the subject of accessibility can be found on the following pages:
Prepared by: BMASGPK, Section IV, Group A
Last update: July 1, 2025