Maternity benefits: up to a thousand euros per child in Austria

MATERNITY INCENTIVES AUSTRIA

A thousand euros a month for twelve months after giving birth, free healthcare for mother and child, long maternity leave, and guaranteed part-time work. This isn't a mother's paradise, but rather our neighbor Austria , where fertility policies are straightforward, without hesitating with communication campaigns of dubious effectiveness . Obviously, we're talking about a rich and well-organized country, but a closer look at maternity support policies reveals the vast differences between them and Italy.

READ ALSO: Family, in Germany a 300 euro bonus for parents who spend more time with their children

FERTILITY POLICIES

The most important measure adopted in Austria a few years ago is called Kindedbetreuungsgeld , which literally means "family allowance." It guarantees the mother 1000 euros per month from the moment she gives birth for a whole year . If desired, the mother can also decide to accept a lower amount and spread the benefit over three years. But it doesn't end there: mother and child are guaranteed full healthcare coverage for twelve months, while from the moment of birth, families are entitled to an amount ranging between 150 and 180 euros per month to cover ordinary expenses until the child's twenty-fourth birthday . In addition to financial benefits, the Austrians have introduced a series of employment benefits for new mothers. Contracts, in fact, allow for maternity leave of up to three years , and part-time work is available until the child's sixth birthday.

READ MORE: Hungary, no taxes for women who have children. Baby boom.

POLICIES TO INCREASE THE BIRTH RATE

Much of this concrete aid in Italy is a mirage, making the comparison merciless . Our country's economic situation imposes significant spending restrictions, but it is essential to ensure families receive the necessary support to prevent the birth rate from continuing to plummet . "I miss Italy dearly, but the quality of life here is unbeatable," writes Cecilia on her blog, mammitudine , who has lived in Vienna for eight years and who, thanks to these policies, was able to peacefully become a mother twice. After all, how can you blame her when, thanks to state subsidies, even private nurseries take in children for free (except for a €70 charge for meals and trips)?

HOW DIFFICULT IS IT TO BE A MOTHER IN ITALY:

• It's not worth it for a woman with children in Italy to work. She spends less by staying home and being a full-time mother.
• An impossible job in Italy? A mother. She's a tightrope walker, and if she gets pregnant, she'll lose her job.
• A women's café has opened in Prato, specializing in the support of mothers and families. The brainchild of a supermom.