The OeAW pursues its mission to “promote science in every way” (Federal Law 569/1921 as amended) on a statutory basis. This statute serves as the foundation of the procedures and organisational structure of the Academy.

Detailed regulations, for instance concerning internal bodies or research units, can be found in the by-laws of the OeAW.

The statute and by-laws are determined by the General Assembly of OeAW members. The statute is further verified by the Federal President.

The current statutes and by-laws of the OeAW came into effect in 2016. The new regulations concerning the organisational structure and procedures of the Academy have created a basis for more streamlined structures and greater flexibility and transparency in its institutional activities.