Why do journals discontinue? A study of Australian ceased journals

Abstract Little is known about why journals discontinue despite its significant implications. We present an analysis of 140 Australian that ceased from 2011 to mid‐2021 and the results a survey editors 53 them. The death age was 19.7 (median = 16) with 57% being 10 years or older. About 54% them belonged educational institutions 34% non‐profit organizations. In terms subject, 75% social sciences, humanities arts. showed funding important reason for discontinuation, lack quality submission support owners journal also played role. Too much reliance on voluntary works appeared be issue editorial processes. dominant metric culture in research environment pressure perform well rankings negatively affect local attracting submissions. A fifth indicated they did not have plan preservation articles at time publication current availability content sub‐optimal many cases website web‐archive platforms.