He emigrated to Australia along with twin-brother Ruan at the end of 2010 and were initially based in Brisbane, Australia. Both brothers linked up with the Australian National Academy and Jean-Pierre was a member of various development sides before heading south in 2013 to join the . Although not named in either the regular or extended playing squads for the 2013 Super Rugby season, Smith was a member of the Brumbies group that traveled to South Africa and New Zealand for the Super Rugby semi-final and final. He didn't get any game time in 2013, but was named in their extended playing squad for 2014.