This paper examines the structure and governance of higher education in Australia, including the federal and state roles, the functions of formal governing bodies, and finance. The paper also examines the organization of studies (bachelors through doctorate), the school admission process, the student financial aid scheme known as AUSTUDY, and the appointment process for faculty. It is revealed that Australian schools are provided most of their funds for teaching and research through the federal government. The Unified National System (UNS) accepts as members those institutions the federal government intends to support financially. UNS institutions decreased from 43 in 1991 to 35 in 1992 following amalgamations. Institutions receive appropximately 75% of their operating funding from federal government sources, and can compete for other funds from the federal government for research projects or special purposes. The Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) has been developed as the mechanism through which Australian students contribute to the costs of their higher education. Statistical data are provided on: sources of funding; students by HECS status; students by level of course; and staff by contract type, function, and gender. (GLR)