Tasks of the Federal Ministry of Economy, Family and Youth
The Federal Ministry of Economy, Family and Youth (BMWFJ) is the competent authority for the following tourism-related issues:
- Trade law (and, in this context, for regulating apprenticeship training);
- Tourism statistics;
- Conclusion of international agreements in tourism;
- Financial support to tourism (task performed by the BMWFJ under private law).
Tasks at the federal level
Within the federal government’s responsibilities the following areas have major implications for the tourism and leisure industry:
- Trade law;
- Transport law;
- Labour law;
- Internal security;
- Duties and taxes;
- Various aspects of environmental protection;
- Financial support (task performed under private law).
Tourism basically comes under the responsibility of the Federal Provinces
The field of tourism and leisure is a horizontal issue embedded in a highly fragmented environment of competent authorities. Under Article 15 of the Federal Constitutional Act (B-VG, General Clause), Austria’s Federal Provinces basically are the competent authorities in matters concerning tourism and leisure.
Tasks at the Federal Provinces level
The Federal Provinces are responsible for enacting “tourism legislation” and providing rules for “events”. In addition, they are the competent regulatory authorities for specific aspects of environmental issues, regional planning, building codes and infrastructure (e.g. regional roads).
In terms of tasks performed under private law, they are responsible for regional support programmes.
