Vienna (AP): Austria's parliament has unanimously agreed to end its legislative period early and authorize early elections following the collapse of the governing coalition.

The procedural vote on Wednesday had been expected and sets the stage for new elections on Sept. 28.

The Council of Ministers is likely to approve the election date onThursday.

The coalition between the center-left Social Democrats and the conservative People's Party fell apart Monday after months of bickering over issues including EU policy.