Abstract
This article presents an analysis of the social assistance systems in Salzburg and Vienna, with a particular focus on their impact on social work. In accordance with the Austrian Social Assistance Act (SGG), both federal states have enacted their own implementing legislation: the Salzburg Social Assistance Act (SUG) and the Vienna Minimum Income Act (WMG). In Salzburg, social work is oriented towards the referral of individuals to employment initiatives, whereas in Vienna the emphasis is on target-group specific services. In both provinces, the demand for social workers exceeds the available workforce, which affects the quality of support provided. The article emphasises the role of social work as a mediator between government requirements and the needs of clients and calls for an increase in human resources. Finally, a comprehensive analysis of social welfare systems at the federal level is recommended in order to identify best practice examples and improve the efficiency of governmental social work.