Mr Smith is a solicitor with a lifelong commitment to social justice and the environment, bringing a strong background in disability advocacy, social justice, community legal services, and environmental law advocacy. Mr Smith is a person with disability who has moved into the disability sector in recent years. Prior to joining the Ageing and Disability Commission Mr Smith held the role of Chief Executive Officer of Disability Advocacy Network Australia, the peak body for independent advocates in Australia. He has also served as CEO of the Environmental Defenders Office NSW for 15 years and later led People with Disability Australia.