He was embroiled in controversy in 1981 when it was discovered that he had mistakenly provided information on his permit to play for South Melbourne.
His grandmother's South Melbourne address was on the permit but in reality lived in Caulfied, which was in St Kilda's zone.
He played on the half-forward flank in Wests 1983 SANFL Grand Final win over Sturt at Football Park.
While at The Bloods, Smith was coached by two of the greats of South Australian football, Neil Kerley (1982–94) and John Cahill (1985-86).
His son, Matthew was drafted by The Adelaide Crows in 2000 at selection 48.Jim McShane, his great grandfather, played for Geelong.