Rescue Contribution

The rescue contribution from the state of Upper Austria supports recognized non-profit rescue organizations with the costs of rescue and patient transport services. The objective is to ensure a comprehensive, general local emergency and rescue service. Funding is provided exclusively to organizations pursuant to § 2 para. 7 of the Upper Austrian Rescue Act 1998, which establish and operate their own emergency and rescue services. Eligible expenses include all costs for the deployment of rescue vehicles, medical equipment, and personnel in rescue and patient transport. The amount of the contribution is based on costs incurred through economical, efficient, and appropriate management, as well as on the population size of the municipalities according to the population statistics as of October 31 of the calendar year two years prior.

The funding is granted as a subsidy and is available indefinitely. The state contribution complements the financial shares of municipalities and social insurance carriers to ensure consistently high quality in rescue services. Applicants must prove their status as a non-profit rescue organization and submit a detailed cost breakdown for the rescue and patient transport service. Eligible recipients include, in particular, the Upper Austrian Red Cross and the Samaritan Association, which independently operate their local emergency services. Through this continuous support, the state of Upper Austria makes a decisive contribution to maintaining vital rescue structures and strengthens the safety of all residents in the region.