Andy Smith is the Secretary of the Western Australian Prison Officers’ Union (WAPOU). Andy began his corrections career as a probationary officer at Hakea Prison in 2004, gaining firsthand experience as an officer and senior officer across a range of facilities, including Bandyup Women’s Prison and Wooroloo Prison Farm. His work spanned security, prison management, and acting principal officer roles, giving him a broad understanding of the systemic challenges facing prison staff.
Driven by a passion for advocacy, Andy became actively involved with WAPOU in 2011. He has played a pivotal role in four rounds of EBA negotiations and has been a steadfast representative for members facing industrial relations disputes. A core focus of Andy’s leadership is on the physical and mental wellbeing of members.
He has been outspoken on the urgent need for better mental health support for prison officers, instituting programs for occupational health and safety, mental health presentations, and annual seminars for members.
Andy is recognised statewide for championing improvements to workplace safety, staffing levels, and suicide prevention initiatives within the prison workforce.
