Jackson Packer, the heir to the Packer fortune, makes first public appearance

The descendant of one of Australia’s richest and most influential families has appeared publicly for the first time.

The grandson of one of Australia’s biggest fortunes has made his first public appearance, vowing to use his privilege for good.

As the son of billionaire businessman and investor Jamie Packer, many believe Jackson Lloyd Packer will take over the Packer dynasty of newspapers, casinos and enormous wealth.

But the teen considered Australia’s richest baby says he just wants to “help”.

Just 14-years-old, Jackson is following in his mother’s footsteps, joining her on a trip to Moldova to witness the work of UNICEF Australia.

The son of billionaire businessman Jamie Packer and heir to the Packer dynasty, Jackson Packer. Picture: Nine

The teen travelled to the country neighbouring Ukraine to help children living in refugee camps and has spent time wtinessing the work completed by the aid organisation in early learning centres in one of Europe’s poorest countries.

“I definitely want to help out … I’ve had so much growing up and I’m so thankful for that,” he told A Current Affair on Monday night.

“These kids have been stripped to have nothing and it’s just better if we can, you know, all share what we have and make life easier for these kids going through an incredibly hard time.”

Jackson Packer and his mother Erica travelled to Moldova to work with children living in refugee camps. Picture: Nine

Jackson’s trip overseas is a far cry from his life and upbringing alongside his sisters Indigo and Emmanuelle in Los Angeles, admitting travelling to Moldova has significantly broadened his perspective.

“It’s definitely shown and broadened my scope of things because you see all these children who have been like displaced and they’ve had to run away,” Jackson said.

“You see those camps and those children and they’re still smiling. They’re still playing. And it really shows how, not only is it the little things that count, but it shows how some things that we obsess over, that we shouldn’t really care about, aren’t that important.

“Even though we have come from a privileged upbringing … I’ve been able to see so much more and such a broader perspective.”

Jackson Packer pictures alongside his father, billionaire businessman, Jamie Packer. Picture: Ana Badillo/Courtesy of The Australian

Erica Packer, Jackson’s mother, first had the idea to take Jackson to Moldova and said it was important to her that her three children understand the responsibility that comes with wealth.

“Australia as a country is very privileged – our family in particular is very privileged,” Erica said.

“It’s really important to me that the kids grow up really understanding the responsibility that they have.

Outside of his charitable work, Jackson admitted he is just like any other 14-year-old, spending his spare time building Lego and jigsaw puzzles.

Originally published as Jackson Packer, the heir to the Packer fortune, makes first public appearance