Belgian ministers currently receive a monthly housing allowance of €247.89 net, plus €867.63 net for household expenses. This system, unchanged since 1998, adds over €1,150 monthly to their already substantial gross salary of around €21,500. On 2025-06-02 09:26:00, opposition voices renewed calls to scrap these allowances, citing a lack of accountability and outdated rules.
- Vlaamse ministers ontvangen vaste woon- en huishoudvergoedingen
- Oppositiepartij PVDA eist schrapping woon- en huishoudtoelagen
- Vergoedingen zijn sinds 1998 onveranderd gebleven
- Federale woonvergoedingen liggen hoger dan Vlaamse
- Ministeriële lonen stegen ondanks besparingen en indexsprongen
- Politieke verloning blijft gevoelig onderwerp bij belastingbetalers
Despite the hefty ministerial wages, these fixed allowances cover housing costs regardless of property ownership or rental status, without any oversight. Is it justified for taxpayers to fund these perks on top of ministers’ salaries, company cars, and chauffeurs? PVDA’s Jos D’Haese argues it is time for reform.
As debate heats up, the question remains: should these allowances be abolished to restore public trust? Here is a quick overview of the current situation and the challenges ahead.
Why do these allowances persist despite their controversial nature? The system dates back to 1998 and has never been indexed, yet remains intact through government changes. Critics highlight the disconnect between generous ministerial pay and the opaque use of public funds. Key points include:
- Monthly ministerial salary: €21,607 gross (2024), roughly €10,000 net depending on family situation
- Additional benefits: service cars, chauffeurs, and exit allowances after office
- Housing allowance: €247.89 net and household costs: €867.63 net per month
- Federal government allowances are even higher, at €1,923.82 monthly, also unaccounted for
Looking ahead, will the Flemish Parliament follow federal footsteps in reviewing these allowances? Greater scrutiny and potential reform could enhance public confidence and ensure ministers’ benefits align with modern expectations. Should citizens expect change soon, or will this “last century” system persist?
