In my editorial musings in volume 47, number 1, I foreshadowed that the Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences would move to six issues starting in 2016. Hence, this issue is 48/1 of 48/1 – 48/6. With 120 pages per issue this means a move from 480 pages to 720 pages and will allow us to publish around 70 papers each year, providing expanded opportunities not only to accept more papers but importantly to have these published in a shorter time frame. In a fast moving world authors are increasingly looking at how long the entire process takes from submission to being in print. Many authors are happy with their papers being available online. However, there is no intention to move away from a hard copy print version.
This issue also includes the new and much expanded Editorial Board. Rather than single out new members of the Board I would like to acknowledge all of the individuals who have accepted invitations to join the Editorial Board and also acknowledge the contribution of departing members. Perhaps the single step in the submission to publication cycle that can cause the greatest delay is the review stage for submitted papers. Finding reviewers with the specific knowledge, and time, to review papers can be very challenging. An important role for members of the Editorial Board is to assist the Editor in selecting reviewers as well as a personal commitment to review a fair allocation of submissions. Reflecting the diverse nature of the journal content, two new Assistant Editors have been appointed to assist in the areas of science (Chris Lennard) and the law (Gary Edmond). In due course it may be necessary to appoint further Assistant Editors.
Hence, 2016 promises to be an exciting year for the Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences and a year of some significant changes in the Australian forensic scene. As we all know, Alastair Ross retired from the role of Director of the National Institute of Forensic Science in mid-2015 and has also stood down as Assistant Editor of our journal. The process to fill the vacancy for Director of the NIFS may well have been completed by the time issue 48/1 appears in print and, if so, the Academy wishes the new Director every success in ensuring the NIFS continues to play an important role in supporting forensic science in Australia and New Zealand.
In addition, of course, the next Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society (ANZFSS) International Symposium will be held in Auckland, New Zealand (from 18–23 September 2016). So, if you have nothing to do, get along to Auckland and find out what ‘Together Informing Justice’ has in store for the future of forensic sciences in our region.
Editor
Australian Journal of Forensic Science
20 October 2015
[email protected]