One of Australia’s most prestigious universities is at the centre of three investigations and could be about to face a fourth.

Last year, Australian National University vice-chancellor Genevieve Bell resigned after pressure over a massive restructure and the hidden role of consultants in shaping it.

Now two inquiries are looking at whether the changes, meant to save $250 million, were ever justified.

A separate investigation is examining bullying allegations against former chancellor Julie Bishop. And Bell herself has been suspended from her 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 bring you an episode from 2025, where senior reporter for The Saturday Paper Rick Morton examines how consultants came to shape Australian universities, and what that’s meant for higher education.

This episode first aired in July 2025.

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Guest: Senior reporter for The Saturday Paper, Rick Morton