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Applications open for 2026 Sybil Emslie Animal Law Scholarship

The Sybil Emslie Animal Law Scholarship, now in its tenth year, is accepting 2026 applications with an increased award of $2,500.

RSPCA Australia
Friday, 12 June 2026

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The longest running of its kind in Australia, the RSPCA Sybil Emslie Animal Law Scholarship, is now accepting 2026 applications. To celebrate the tenth anniversary of the scholarship, the award has been increased to $2,500. Applications are open from today and will close at midnight, Friday 4 September 2026.

Administered by RSPCA Australia with funds contributed by animal welfare philanthropist Sybil Emslie’s family and other donors, it will be awarded to an animal law student or lawyer with a strong academic record and a commitment to the practice of animal law through active and substantial engagement with animal protection organisations and initiatives.

In 2026 the scholarship purse has increased substantially, thanks to the generous philanthropic support of donors.

Each year the Scholarship attracts talented entries, and past recipients include Francesca Nyilas, for whom the scholarship played a pivotal role in the shaping of her career, enabling the pursuit of opportunities aligned with her passion for animals while expanding her career into the climate, planning, energy and infrastructure sectors. The recipient for 2023, Alexandra Whittaker, attributes receiving the scholarship to marking a turning point in her career as both a veterinarian and an Associate Professor.

Applicants will be assessed against three criteria: enrolment in a law degree or enrolled or aspiring to enrol in a higher-research degree within an Australian law school, or, be a practising lawyer within an Australian jurisdiction; demonstration of commitment to the practice of animal law, and; demonstration of how their research or practising activity will benefit the development and application of animal law and animal protection more broadly.

The Scholarship celebrates the dedication and advocacy of Sybil Emslie, a lifelong supporter of animal welfare whose generosity and advocacy reflected a deep commitment to the protection and care of animals. Sybil’s legacy continues through enduring support for initiatives that strengthen animal welfare and advance meaningful, long‑term change.

More information on the Sybil Emslie Scholarship, including details on how to apply in 2026 and previous recipients, is available here.

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Applications open for 2026 Sybil Emslie Animal Law Scholarship

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