AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL ISSUES

Scope & Guideline

Engaging with Australia’s Societal Issues

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the scholarly insights of AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL ISSUES with our comprehensive guidelines detailing its aims and scope. This page is your resource for understanding the journal's thematic priorities. Stay abreast of trending topics currently drawing significant attention and explore declining topics for a full picture of evolving interests. Our selection of highly cited topics and recent high-impact papers is curated within these guidelines to enhance your research impact.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0157-6321
PublisherWILEY
Support Open AccessNo
CountryAustralia
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1975 to 1976, from 1980 to 1982, 1984, 1986, from 1989 to 1993, from 1996 to 2024
AbbreviationAUST J SOC ISSUES / Aust. J. Soc. Iss.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ

Aims and Scopes

The Australian Journal of Social Issues aims to provide a platform for scholarly discussions on critical social issues affecting Australia, focusing on policies, practices, and community experiences. The journal addresses a broad spectrum of topics related to social welfare, public policy, and community dynamics, with a commitment to highlighting marginalized voices and promoting social justice.
  1. Social Policy and Welfare Reform:
    The journal extensively covers issues related to social policy developments, welfare reforms, and their implications for various demographic groups, particularly vulnerable populations.
  2. Cultural and Racial Dynamics:
    Research focuses on the intersections of culture, race, and social identity, exploring how these factors influence individuals' experiences within Australian society.
  3. Health and Well-being:
    There is a consistent emphasis on mental health, physical health disparities, and the social determinants of health among diverse communities, particularly in the context of systemic inequalities.
  4. Community Engagement and Participation:
    The journal promotes studies on community-driven initiatives, the role of social services, and participatory approaches in addressing social issues and enhancing well-being.
  5. Indigenous Studies:
    A significant focus is placed on Indigenous perspectives, rights, and social justice issues, with attention to policy impacts and community resilience.
  6. Impact of Technology and Digital Services:
    Exploration of how digital tools and services affect social welfare delivery, employment, and community engagement, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Australian Journal of Social Issues has recently seen a surge in specific themes that reflect contemporary societal challenges and emerging areas of interest among researchers. These themes offer valuable insights into the evolving landscape of social issues in Australia.
  1. Digital Transformation in Social Services:
    There is a growing body of research on the impact of digital technologies on social service delivery, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting both opportunities and challenges.
  2. Mental Health and Well-being in Crisis Contexts:
    Studies examining mental health during crises, particularly related to the COVID-19 pandemic, are increasingly prevalent, emphasizing the need for responsive mental health strategies.
  3. Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination:
    A notable trend is the rise in research focused on Indigenous rights, self-determination, and community-led initiatives, reflecting a broader societal recognition of these issues.
  4. Social Justice Movements and Activism:
    Research on social justice movements, including anti-racism and advocacy for marginalized groups, has gained traction, indicating an increased scholarly interest in activism and societal change.
  5. Intersectionality in Social Issues:
    There is a growing emphasis on intersectional approaches to social issues, recognizing how various identities and experiences intersect to shape individuals' realities and challenges.

Declining or Waning

While the journal maintains a diverse range of topics, certain themes have shown signs of declining prominence in recent years. These waning scopes may indicate shifts in research focus or changes in societal priorities.
  1. Traditional Employment Services:
    Research related to conventional employment services and job market dynamics has decreased, possibly due to the growing focus on digital and innovative approaches to employment.
  2. Corporal Punishment and Child Discipline:
    The frequency of studies addressing corporal punishment and traditional child-rearing practices appears to be waning, suggesting a potential shift towards more progressive child welfare perspectives.
  3. Poverty as a Standalone Topic:
    While poverty remains a critical issue, the journal has gradually shifted towards integrating poverty discussions within broader themes of inequality and social justice rather than treating it as a standalone topic.
  4. Rural and Regional Issues:
    There has been a noticeable decline in the exploration of social issues specifically affecting rural and regional communities, possibly overshadowed by urban-centric studies.
  5. Gender Inequality in Isolation:
    Research focused solely on gender inequality, without intersectional considerations, has diminished, reflecting a broader understanding of the complexities involved in social justice topics.

Similar Journals

Revija za Socijalnu Politiku

Enriching Discourse, Elevating Scholarship.
Publisher: SVEUCLISTE ZAGREBU, PRAVNI FAKULTED-UNIV ZAGREB, FAC LAWISSN: 1330-2965Frequency: 3 issues/year

Revija za Socijalnu Politiku is a prominent open-access journal dedicated to the fields of social policy, political science, and sociology, published by SVEUCLISTE ZAGREBU, PRAVNI FAKULTET-UNIV ZAGREB, FAC LAW in Croatia. Since its inception in 1994, the journal has fostered a rich academic discourse, providing a platform for researchers, professionals, and students to disseminate and engage with impactful findings in social policy and related disciplines. With an ISSN of 1330-2965 and an E-ISSN of 1845-6014, it continues to enrich the academic landscape, reflected in its performance with a Q3 ranking within both Political Science and International Relations, and Sociology and Political Science categories for 2023. This ranking, alongside its Scopus position—462 out of 706 in the former and 969 out of 1466 in the latter field—demonstrates the journal's commitment to publishing influential research. By maintaining an open-access model, Revija za Socijalnu Politiku facilitates widespread dissemination of knowledge, empowering scholars to access vital research without barriers. Its convergence years from 2005 to 2023 mark a trajectory of continual growth and relevance in the academic community, making it an essential resource for those interested in social policy and its societal implications.

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY

Fostering collaboration for a healthier, more equitable future.
Publisher: WILEY-HINDAWIISSN: 0966-0410Frequency: 1 issue/year

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY, published by WILEY-HINDAWI, is a prominent journal in the fields of health policy, public health, social sciences, and social work, reflecting its broad academic appeal and comprehensive scope. With an impressive categorization in Q1 for Sociology and Political Science and Q2 rankings across various health-related fields, the journal serves as a vital resource for researchers, practitioners, and students dedicated to advancing knowledge in health and social care domains. Since its inception in 1993, it has consistently promoted high-quality, peer-reviewed articles that tackle contemporary issues, ensuring its relevance and impact in our rapidly evolving society. While the journal is accessible through subscription, it stands out for its commitment to disseminating crucial research findings which are pivotal to establishing effective practices and policies in health and social care. As it approaches its convergence into 2024, the journal continues to be a key player in supporting interdisciplinary dialogue and fostering research that influences real-world change.

Social Theory & Health

Innovating Perspectives on Health through Social Theory
Publisher: PALGRAVE MACMILLAN LTDISSN: 1477-8211Frequency: 4 issues/year

Social Theory & Health is a leading scholarly journal published by Palgrave Macmillan, focusing on the intricate relationships between social factors and health outcomes. With an ISSN of 1477-8211 and an E-ISSN of 1477-822X, this journal has contributed significantly to the fields of sociology, political science, and health social sciences since its inception in 2003. As a testament to its high-quality research output, Social Theory & Health ranked in the Q2 category for both Health (social science) and Sociology and Political Science in 2023, demonstrating its vital role in advancing interdisciplinary scholarship. Researchers and professionals alike are encouraged to access its rich repository of articles that delve into contemporary issues affecting health from a sociocultural perspective. With a current percentile ranking of 80th in Sociology and Political Science, and 69th in Health (social science), this journal remains an essential resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of how social theories shape health practices and policies.

International Journal of Indigenous Health

Advancing Indigenous Health Through Knowledge and Dialogue
Publisher: UNIV VICTORIA CENTRE ABORIGINAL HEALTH RESEARCHISSN: 2291-9368Frequency: 2 issues/year

International Journal of Indigenous Health is a leading academic platform dedicated to advancing the understanding and promotion of health issues pertinent to Indigenous populations. Published by the University of Victoria Centre for Aboriginal Health Research, this journal serves as a critical resource for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners interested in Indigenous health perspectives, cultural practices, and healthcare strategies. The journal's open access model facilitates widespread dissemination of knowledge, ensuring that vital research reaches those who need it most. With its commitment to exploring the intersection of health and Indigenous knowledge systems, the International Journal of Indigenous Health plays a significant role in fostering dialogue, driving healthcare innovations, and improving health outcomes for Indigenous communities globally. For researchers and professionals dedicated to this important field, engaging with this journal will not only enhance their understanding but also contribute meaningfully towards the evolution of Indigenous health research.

OBETS-Revista de Ciencias Sociales

Exploring cultural phenomena through innovative research.
Publisher: UNIV ALICANTE, INST UNIV DESARROLLO SOCIAL & PAZ-IUDESPISSN: 1989-1385Frequency: 2 issues/year

OBETS-Revista de Ciencias Sociales is a distinguished peer-reviewed open-access journal published by the Universidad de Alicante, Instituto Universitario Desarrollo Social y Paz (IUDESP). Since its inception in 2008, this journal has been dedicated to advancing research in the fields of Arts and Humanities and Social Sciences, providing a platform for scholars to disseminate their findings and engage in critical discourse. With a notable Q2 ranking in Arts and Humanities (miscellaneous) and a Q3 ranking in Social Sciences (miscellaneous) as of 2023, the journal has established a significant presence in the academic landscape, reflected in its Scopus rankings—where it stands at 37th out of 173 in General Arts and Humanities and 158th out of 275 in General Social Sciences. The publication facilitates an inclusive academic dialogue by embracing a variety of interdisciplinary topics, thus appealing to researchers, professionals, and students alike, fostering a greater understanding of social dynamics and cultural phenomena. Its open-access model ensures that research is accessible to a wider audience, promoting the exchange of ideas across borders.

Du Bois Review-Social Science Research on Race

Fostering Innovative Research in Social Sciences
Publisher: CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESSISSN: 1742-058XFrequency: 2 issues/year

Du Bois Review: Social Science Research on Race is a prestigious academic journal published by Cambridge University Press, focusing on the intersections of race, ethnicity, and social sciences. Since its inception in 2004, this journal has carved out a vital space for interdisciplinary research, vital for understanding contemporary societal dynamics surrounding race. With an impressive categorization in the Q1 tier of Anthropology and Cultural Studies, and a respectable Q2 ranking in Sociology and Political Science, the Du Bois Review is recognized for its impactful contributions to the field, boasting a remarkable 86th percentile ranking in Cultural Studies. Researchers and students will find in this journal a rich repository of scholarly articles that encourage critical discourse and innovative thinking. Although it is not an open-access publication, its rigorous peer-review process ensures the highest quality of scholarship, making it an essential resource for anyone engaged in social science research on race.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH

Bridging research and practice to enhance population well-being.
Publisher: AMER PUBLIC HEALTH ASSOC INCISSN: 0090-0036Frequency: 12 issues/year

The American Journal of Public Health, published by the American Public Health Association, stands as a cornerstone in the field of public health and epidemiology since its inception in 1949. With its rigorous peer-review process and a robust commitment to advancing knowledge and research practices, this journal holds a prestigious position in the academic community, as reflected in its 2023 Scopus ranking, where it is placed in the top percentile (93rd) within the categories of Public Health and Environmental and Occupational Health. The journal's focus encompasses a broad spectrum of public health topics, making it essential reading for researchers, practitioners, and students dedicated to improving population health. Subscribers can access invaluable insights through its collection of innovative studies and reviews, thereby reinforcing the journal's role in shaping public health policy and practice. By bridging research and real-world application, the American Journal of Public Health remains a vital resource for those engaged in the quest to improve health outcomes across diverse communities.

Journal of Prevention & Intervention in the Community

Transforming lives with evidence-based prevention strategies.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1085-2352Frequency: 4 issues/year

The Journal of Prevention & Intervention in the Community, published by ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD, is an influential platform devoted to advancing knowledge in the fields of community health and social psychology. With a respectable impact factor and ranking in the Q3 quartile for both Medicine (miscellaneous) and Social Psychology, this journal occupies a crucial space for researchers, practitioners, and students seeking to explore the intersections of health prevention strategies and community interventions. Since its inception in 1996, it has provided a forum for innovative research, practical applications, and critical discussions, contributing to the evidence base necessary for effective community initiatives. While currently not available in an open access format, the journal remains committed to high-quality scholarly work and nurtures the dissemination of impactful findings across disciplines. Situated in the United States and catering to a global audience, the Journal of Prevention & Intervention in the Community continues to be an essential resource for those dedicated to enhancing community well-being.

SOCIOLOGICAL RESEARCH ONLINE

Connecting theory and practice through robust research.
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 1360-7804Frequency: 4 issues/year

Sociological Research Online, published by SAGE Publications Ltd, stands as a pivotal open-access journal in the fields of sociology and political science. Established in 1996 and continuously published until the present, this journal provides a platform for innovative and robust sociological research, contributing to significant theoretical and empirical discussions in the discipline. With an impressive Q2 ranking in the 2023 category quartiles, it positions itself among the top 29% of journals in its field, as evidenced by its Scopus rank of #414 out of 1466. The journal fosters accessible scholarship and encourages the dissemination of research that engages both academic and public audiences. By including a wide array of methodological approaches and diverse perspectives, Sociological Research Online not only supports the advancement of knowledge but also enhances understanding of social issues in contemporary society, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike.

CHILD WELFARE

Driving Policy Reform for a Safer Childhood
Publisher: CHILD WELFARE LEAGUE AMER INCISSN: 0009-4021Frequency: 6 issues/year

CHILD WELFARE is a prominent journal dedicated to advancing research and practice in the field of child welfare, published by the Child Welfare League of America Inc.. Established in 1971, this journal has been a vital resource for professionals, researchers, and policymakers interested in child welfare issues, with a robust impact reflected in its Scopus ranking of #264 out of 915 in the General Medicine category, indicating a strong standing in the field. While it operates under a traditional subscription model, the journal emphasizes the dissemination of evidence-based research and innovative practices that directly inform effective child welfare systems. Despite its discontinued coverage in Scopus after 2015, CHILD WELFARE remains relevant by addressing critical topics such as policy reform, child protection, foster care, and community interventions. As a critical voice in the field, the journal strengthens the understanding and improvement of child welfare practices across various settings, ensuring that the well-being of children remains a priority.