How to play Austria in this game?

[Town Watch]

Austria to my knowledge should work towards becoming the Emperor of HRE, how to do this, and also expand territorially in Europe. I quite like the idea of becoming a European giant, gobbling up hapless enemies, fighting against Muslim incursions, defending HRE's integrity, conquering vassals etc...
Austria seems to have great potential, but its pretty weak in the start. (1399)
How would you go about with Austria?

Can you form Germany with Austria btw?

[Heavy Weapons Guy]

To become Emperor just have good relations with electors. To get this offer them military access, royal marriage, and pay money (gifts), but don't offer trade offers.
Expand in East to Balkans! But first try to annex Aquilea (spelling) or make them vassal and later annex them. They have much gold producing provinces. That's good it boosts production greatly and event can happen ''GOLD RUSH!'' It gives you 400 gold to your treasury! That's really good event.
Try to get some bordering provinces from Hungary, but watch out they are strong, attack when they are at war with some one or better warn them!

No you can't unfortunately even though it's a German nation.

[Mangalore]

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Austria seems to have great potential, but its pretty weak in the start. (1399)
How would you go about with Austria?

...

Austria isn't that weak, you just have to pick your fights and sometimes wait your turn. If your exploitive there are dozens of high value provinces in your grasp with only small fry to protect them. Italy and south germany are big targets.

Compared to other potential powers like Brandenburg you are a middle power, not a small one!

[Lurker]

Become HRE and then create huge armies and crush everyone that is a threat to you. Of course, after becoming HRE, it's best to attack Aquiela(?) for the extra gold provinces. Then eventually you can create a COT in Gorz, and that will further give you income.