Animal advocate has rights in sights
Tash Poole is determined to act when she sees injustice – and the passionate activist aims to use her law degree to further the fight to protect animals, and advocate for their rights.
The CQUniversity Bachelor of Laws (LLB) student began studying part time in 2021, around a busy role in the international Protech industry.
A vegan for nearly a decade, and a former candidate for Queensland’s Animal Justice Party at state and federal elections, Tash said her passion for protecting animals inspired her legal focus.
“We all call ourselves animal lovers in Australia, but I was much like the typical Australian: I just had no idea how animals were treated across so many industries,” she said.
“In 2016, I watched a documentary exposing the reality of animal farming, and from that moment, I made the decision to go vegan.
“Being a political candidate, and also part of a grassroots campaign to stop a puppy farm in my local area getting council approval for expansion, made me realise the importance of the law and regulation in ensuring animal wellbeing is protected.”
Originally from Bundaberg, and now living on the Sunshine Coast, Tash chose CQU’s online degree as the most flexible option to fit around her work and political roles.
She’s also been able to focus on animal law, joining a student reading group with CQU animal law expert Dr Alexandra McEwan.
“CQU offers Animal Law as an elective within the Laws degree, and that’s so important to me,” Tash said.
Recently, in a research assessment for Public International Law, Tash was able to focus on animals and the law, exploring protocols to protect Antarctic krill. Her work on this assessment aligns with CQUs commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal (SDG) 14 Life Below Water, to preserve sustainable water systems.
“Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to visit Antarctica, and the expedition with scientists and activists was truly life-changing,” she said.
“Being able to choose this focus, I was able to highlight how the framework of international law is letting krill fishing exploit the environment and the species.
“The assignment helped me realise I’m on the right track, with my studies and my career plans.”
Dr McEwan said that the skills Tash will develop during her LLB will support her to become the changemaker she aspires to be.
Tash said the studies are also helping achieve a childhood dream.
“I've always been passionate about politics and the law, and since Grade 3, I had my sights set on becoming both a lawyer and a politician!” she said.
“In my late teens, my adventurous spirit took me into a totally different direction, travelling the world – but it’s incredible to have come back to that path in my 30s, and have the option to fit it around my life.
"Once I graduate, I’m eager to contribute to the work of the Animal Defenders Office and the plant-based treaty movement, using the legal system and policy development to advocate for and protect animals."
CQUniversity’s Bachelor of Laws is available to study across three years full-time, or four years part-time, available to study entirely online – with opportunities for residential schools, work-integrated learning and international study tours.
Learn more at the CQU Laws website.
