Country Information

Austria

Management of Rural Development

Rural Development policy in Austria is under the responsibility of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Management. The policy is defined in the Austrian National Strategy Plan (NSP) for Rural Development and a single Rural Development Programme (RDP) covering the whole country. It aims to deliver multi-functional, sustainable and competitive agriculture and forestry in thriving rural areas.

Summary of rural development policy objectives

The strategy for the Austrian Rural Development Programme is built around three main objectives:

Improving the competitiveness of agriculture and forestry (the measures contribute primarily to reducing costs and restructuring and modernising the agricultural sector;
Sustainable use of natural resources and preservation of the cultural landscape. Agriculture, with a considerable share in organic farming, and forestry play a prominent role in effectively managing natural resources;
Preservation and development of attractive and vital rural areas by improving the economic situation and the well-being of rural communities.

Relevant documents

National Strategy Plan (NSP)
National Rural Development Programme (RDP)
Rural Development programme summary: To see a detailed RDP fiche click here.

Relevant organisations

Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Management
Managing Authority
Paying Agency
National Rural Network (NRN):
- https://www.netzwerk-land.at/
- Austrian NRN on ENRD
Local Action Groups on ENRD website