Unis may not like policy, minister warns

Universities aren't necessarily going to like all of the Turnbull government's new education policy, the minister in charge plans to tell their chiefs.

But Simon Birmingham is seeking their support in encouraging a bipartisan approach to set the sector up for the long-term certainty it craves.

Senator Birmingham dumped the coalition's policy of deregulating university fees last May and is yet to unveil replacement plans.

But he says changes to Australia's higher education settings are a necessity in the face of significant pressure on the commonwealth budget.

"Big spending promises, without any inkling of how to pay for them, have saddled us with a legacy that we can either deal with now or leave future generations to struggle with," he will tell the Universities Australia conference in Canberra on Wednesday.

"I, at least, am being honest with you about this reality, unlike others who, when it comes to the budget deficit, will pretend that there's nothing to see here."

Senator Birmingham will speak of the importance of excellence, equity, transparency and sustainability to long-term certainty.

The government's policies must give universities incentives to make the best decisions about who to enrol, how many students to take and what the can study, he will say.

As well, universities must be accountable for the outcomes those students achieve, including whether they get good jobs.

There is still more to do to make sure more indigenous, regional and disadvantaged students head to university.

"I hope that, when fully briefed on the directions we are taking, even though you may not like all of it, that you will encourage a bipartisan approach," Senator Birmingham will say.

"I hope you will continue to be as constructive with me as you have been to date."