Lower Austria's unemployment climbs to 6.2% as women and older workers struggle

Unemployment in Lower Austria has risen slightly, reaching 6.2 percent by the end of May. The latest figures from the Public Employment Service (AMS NÖ) show 44,000 people registered as jobless, an increase of 0.3 percentage points from last year. Women and older workers have been particularly affected by the shift. The number of unemployed women in the region now stands at 1,244 out of 1,532 total cases. Their unemployment rate has jumped by 7.9 percent, compared to just 2.3 percent for men. Among these women, 462 are over 50, a group hit hard by the recent rise in the retirement age.

Certain sectors are struggling more than others. Healthcare, social services, scientific and technical fields, public administration, and manufacturing—especially industrial roles—have seen the sharpest declines. Apprenticeship placements also face challenges. AMS NÖ currently lists 970 open positions but has 1,128 applicants seeking training. The imbalance is clearest in districts like Wiener Neustadt, where 52 apprenticeships are available but 102 people are searching. In Neunkirchen, 41 positions attract 93 candidates. AMS NÖ has responded by focusing on intensive job placement efforts. The goal is to boost market activity and reduce the growing gap between supply and demand.

The latest data highlights a tougher job market for women and older workers in Lower Austria. With apprenticeship shortages and sector-specific struggles, AMS NÖ is prioritising targeted support to address the rising unemployment. The coming months will show whether these measures ease the pressure on affected groups.