Uni bill as poll trigger foolish: Pyne

Education Minister Christopher Pyne says he would be foolish to think of using his controversial higher education reforms as a trigger for an early election.

There is speculation in government ranks of a double-dissolution election if the May 12 budget gives the coalition a poll lift.

Mr Pyne is persisting with a push to deregulate university fees despite legislation being twice stymied by the Senate.

However, he's dismissed suggestions another attempt could serve as a trigger.

"Only a very foolish minister would be seeking a trigger," he told Sky News on Tuesday.

"I want to see the bill passed."

Mr Pyne is confident it will be third time lucky for his reforms.

He said crossbench senators who voted against the bill in the second round were in favour of the changes or had requested more information, signalling a change of heart.

The minister wouldn't reveal who those senators were, but said he was working "quietly behind the scenes" in his negotiations.