The powerful firms reshaping our universities
Apr 19, 2026 •
One of Australia’s most prestigious universities is now at the centre of three investigations and could be about to face a fourth.
Last year, ANU vice-chancellor Genevieve Bell resigned after pressure over a massive restructure and the hidden role consultants played in shaping it.
Now two inquiries are now looking at whether the changes, meant to save $250 million, were ever justified. A separate investigation is looking into bullying allegations against former chancellor Julie Bishop. And Bell herself has been suspended from her ongoing role as a distinguished professor, accused of serious misconduct.
It comes as powerful firms are reshaping higher education. A recent Four Corners investigation found Australian unis are spending roughly $1.8 billion a year on consultants and contractors.
Today, we’re bringing you an episode from 2025, where senior reporter for The Saturday Paper Rick Morton examines how consultants came to shape Australian unis, and what that’s meant for higher education.
This episode first aired in July 2025.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
The powerful firms reshaping our universities
1884 • Apr 19, 2026
The powerful firms reshaping our universities
One of Australia’s most prestigious universities is now at the centre of three investigations and could be about to face a fourth.
Last year, ANU vice-chancellor Genevieve Bell resigned after pressure over a massive restructure and the hidden role consultants played in shaping it.
Now two inquiries are now looking at whether the changes, meant to save $250 million, were ever justified. A separate investigation is looking into bullying allegations against former chancellor Julie Bishop. And Bell herself has been suspended from her ongoing role as a distinguished professor, accused of serious misconduct.
It comes as powerful firms are reshaping higher education. A recent Four Corners investigation found Australian unis are spending roughly $1.8 billion a year on consultants and contractors.
Today, we’re bringing you an episode from 2025, where senior reporter for The Saturday Paper Rick Morton examines how consultants came to shape Australian unis, and what that’s meant for higher education.
This episode first aired in July 2025.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Guest: Senior reporter for The Saturday Paper, Rick Morton
Listen and subscribe in your favourite podcast app (it's free).
7am is a daily show from Solstice Media.
It’s made by Arielle Richards, Atticus Bastow, Chris Dengate, Daniel James, Krystal Keller, Nicole Johnston, Travis Evans and Zoltan Fecso.
Our theme music is by Ned Beckley and Josh Hogan of Envelope Audio.