EP is one of the two journals published by the Economic Society of Australia - the other [...]]]> One of the interesting things I have done over the past six months is to take over the editorship of  Economic Papers: a journal of applied economics and policy - the current issue can be viewed online at this link.

EP is one of the two journals published by the Economic Society of Australia - the other being The Economic Record.  In my view everyone with a professional interest in economics in Australia should join the ESA.  Apart from the publications mentioned the ESA organises an annual Conference of Economists – this year in Adelaide and has regular seminars on interesting economic topics.  I’ve been a member of the ESA since being an undergraduate – there are concessional subscription rates for students.

Being an editor is an interesting change for me.  Now I am in the position of occasionally rejecting papers rather than – as more than infrequently happens – having my contributions rejected.  I’ve acquired a much-needed tolerance for the role of editor!   I have been scouting around for good papers and found that the simplest way to elicit such is to ask.  I’ve also learnt a lot about the generosity of those busy economists in Australia and around the world who are prepared to contribute refereeing services.

If readers of this blog have an interest and knowledge of applied economics think about making a contribution.  I am particularly interested in gaining more submissions on environmental issues and in gaining more submissions from those working in the public sector. Those working on important economic policy issues in public bureaucracies have an important role in providing quality economic research and in encouraging useful directions for research in the universities.