The FPÖ and ÖVP announced on Thursday that they wanted to abolish the free climate ticket for 18-year-olds. So far, about one in five people have taken advantage of the offer. The actual costs will therefore probably be lower than the calculated savings.
The abolition of the free climate ticket for 18-year-olds is expected to result in savings of 120 million this year. This amount has been budgeted at the Ministry of Climate. Actual costs will likely be lower. So far, one in five 18-year-olds has used the ticket.
According to the ministry, approximately 89,000 people are eligible annually. In 2024, 17,000 of them actually took advantage of the offer. Since the turn of the year, a climate ticket for young people (up to 25 years old) costs 884.20 euros. So far it was 821 euros. This resulted in costs of approximately 14 million euros last year. To reach 120 million, approximately 136,000 tickets would have to be awarded at the new price.
Who is entitled to it and for how long
The free climate ticket for 18-year-olds was introduced on July 1, 2024. Anyone who has turned or will turn 18 as of January 1, 2024 and lives in Austria is eligible. The start can be freely chosen between the 18th and one day before the 21st birthday. Anyone who did not redeem their ticket last year can still do so.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
