In order to improve the compatibility of work and family life, the Armed Forces on family-friendly framework conditions. The offer includes childcare places as well as a parent month and support during a deployment abroad. Appropriate childcare facilities exist throughout Austria.
Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner said: “The compatibility of career and family is a top priority, especially in the armed forces. Deployments abroad, transfers and further training demand a lot from both soldiers and their families. However, family-friendliness and the fulfillment of military tasks are in no way contradictory – quite the opposite. We create the right balance between career and family through a needs-based overall care concept. This ensures that professional advancement and family responsibilities are in harmony with each other in the best possible way.”
If recruits are expecting children during their basic military service, they can take a “parent month”. This means that they receive a one-month leave of absence during their six-month basic military service. The same applies to soldiers in military service and training. During the summer vacations, the armed forces also offer free childcare places. During the kindergarten and school-free periods, children are looked after there all day.
If soldiers are deployed abroad, the “Family Support” supports their relatives throughout Austria. They are accompanied and provided with information even before their deployment abroad. Family members can exchange information and make contacts at regular meetings. The family support service also offers discounts, free tickets for events and the opportunity to borrow games, bicycles and scooters.
The Austrian Armed Forces promote the development of social relationships and support soldiers in balancing their obligations. Command Support Battalion 2 was awarded the title of “family-friendly employer” together with Fliegerwerft 2. Jäger Battalion 18 in Styria was also certified once again. Childcare facilities exist in all federal states.
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