Aspects of recent changes in Australian higher education are explored, with focus on the Dawkins Agenda, which is related to the current political and economic situation. Questions about the success of John Dawkins, Federal Minister for Employment, Education and Training, in regard to higher education are raised (why he has been successful and what results may last). The main elements of Dawkins reform agenda include: consolidation of institutions via amalgamation to form larger units; abolition of the binary system and replacement by a unified national system of higher education; more emphasis on fields of importance to economic recovery and growth (i.e. applied and computer science and business); and changes to governing bodies to make them more like boards of companies. The Dawkins approach with an international context fits closely with directions being followed by higher education systems in other industrialized western nations. In 18 months, John Dawkins has made impressive progress toward his goals. The binary system is officially gone, several institutions have been part of mergers, and new growth is being funded at improved rates per student unit. Dawkins is putting renewed energy into achieving his objectives, and he has gained cooperation of the relevant Ministers in the two largest states. Relations between the federal government and the higher education community remain important, and the Dawkins reform agenda has secured strong support, though there is evidence of a change of mood. Contains 14 references. (SM)