The Tertiary Education Commission's boss has confirmed it needs to save 25 million dollars over four years

It's looking at disestablishing 28 roles - nine of them already vacant.

Women do three-quarters of the jobs at risk - sparking concern from the PSA union.

Commission Chief Executive Tim Fowler says their line-by-line review focused on lower-priority spending and services, before decisions that impact people.

He says they're committed to treating all staff fairly and equally.