Efficiency of the Expenditure Structure of the Public Sector in Austria

Identifying potentials for greater efficiency and restructurisation of public expenditure in order to regain a scope for financial action is a vital factor determining the success of any future-oriented financial policy. The study shows that Austria gets only an average performance from a slightly above-average input in the key sectors of education and research. Based on international benchmark analyses, substantial efficiency reserves can be computed in the administrative and aid sectors. The extent to which these potentials can be implemented in actual practice, however, requires more in-depth study. It is necessary to examine the institutional framework for all administrative activities in all policy fields in order to tap efficiency reserves and shift budgets in the long term.