Victim Emergency Hotline

The funding enables the financial security of the nationwide Austrian victim emergency hotline "0800 112 112 – Emergency Hotline for Victims" as well as the accompanying online counseling. The aim is to cover the ongoing operating costs for the hotline and digital communication services for non-profit organizations and public institutions. Through this initiative, a central point of contact is provided for victims of crimes, offering round-the-clock support, initial orientation, and the referral to further assistance and legal counseling services.

The program is particularly relevant for institutions that are professionally, technically, and organizationally capable of operating a nationwide victim support service in Austria and that meet the general funding requirements according to the General Framework Guidelines for Federal Funds (ARR 2014). The measure targets individuals who require professional support and legal advice as a result of a criminal offense. With the continuous funding opportunity starting from January 1, 2026, applications can be submitted at any time, ensuring uninterrupted operation of the hotline. By providing this resource, the measure makes a significant contribution to guaranteeing equal access to justice for particularly vulnerable individuals and strengthens their rights and capacity to act in crisis situations.