Don't put fee change in budget, unis say

Universities are urging the Abbott government not to use the budget to announce revamped higher education reforms.

The government intends to press ahead with plans to deregulate university fees despite a second rejection by the Senate on Tuesday night.

Universities Australia doesn't want Mark III included in the May budget with chief Belinda Robinson saying a proper debate was needed to convince the public of the need for change.

The universities worry the rules around the budget process require confidentiality.

"And confidentiality is the last thing we need when we're seeking to bring the public into our confidence," Ms Robinson told reporters in Canberra.