Growing up between Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) bases as part of a military family, Lieutenant Matthew Jackson was familiar with Defence life from an early age, but it was not until 2016, at the age of 27, that he joined the Royal Australian Navy.

Now 37, LEUT Jackson is one of 125 people recognised as a Top Navy Person, nominated by their command as part of celebrations marking 125 years of the Royal Australian Navy since its foundation in March 1901.

A qualified Maritime Warfare Officer-Fighter Controller (MWO-FC), LEUT Jackson has served for a decade after beginning his professional career in the Queensland Public Service. He is currently undertaking a Master of War Studies with Navy support.

His decision to join Navy rather than the Air Force stemmed from a desire to get out, travel and take on practical challenges.

"I wanted to do cool things and not spend my career sitting behind a desk," LEUT Jackson said.

While he now works in a desk-based position within the International Engagement team, he said his Navy career has given him opportunities he never expected.

"My current role may be largely office-based, but I am part of the team responsible for Australia's relationship with North America, which has already provided opportunities to travel internationally, including to London," he said.

"As a child, one of my goals was to travel the world. Through my career and particularly with this posting, I feel like I have achieved that goal."

Throughout his career, LEUT Jackson has visited some of Australia's most remote locations, including the Cocos (Keeling) Islands during a six-month patrol boat deployment as part of his MWO training.

Following training, he was posted to HMAS Choules as an Officer of the Watch, responsible for the safe navigation of the ship.

The experience, combined with subsequent postings, helped develop leadership skills that remain valuable throughout his career to date.

"One of the most valuable lessons I learned as a Divisional Officer, responsible for up to 20 sailors, was the importance of making time for every member of the team, every day," LEUT Jackson said.

"I was honoured to receive a Navy retention award for my team outcome, but what I am most proud of is hopefully having helped improve their lives and their experience of service."