Martin grew up in country Victoria and made her W-League debut for Melbourne Victory as a 16-year-old in the 2015-16 season.

She was a constant fixture in the Victory side for three years but only made five appearances last campaign after the club signed Matildas defender Teigen Allen.

The 21-year-old defender was supporting friend and Sydney University teammate Clare Wheeler in January when the fight of the mostly home-grown Jets side struck a chord.

"I've known Clare Wheeler for a long time. We played Young Matildas since we were 15, so she is one of my good mates," Martin said.

"I was looking for a bit of a change and the small city appealed a little bit. I watched them last year against Perth at No.2 Sportsground and they had everyone out - [American Katie] Stengel, [Matilda Emily] van Egmond - and I watched them come back from a couple of goals down and I thought, 'That's what I want to be a part of'."

Martin had played under Craig Deans with the Young Matildas and was also keen to work with the Jets coach again.

"I know what he's all about. I know he gives his players a shot, really backs them in," Martin said.

"I was playing against [Newcastle Jet] Hannah Brewer [in Women's National Premier League NSW] and she pulled me aside and said, 'What are you doing for W-League?'. I told her I'd actually like to go to Newcastle then it all happened really quick.

"It was such an easy transition. I've played with or against most of these girls in the system. And as soon as I walked through the door I felt it. It was like, this is where I want to be."

Martin is living in the city with Collister and Nicki Flannery, who also play for Sydney University in Women's NPL NSW, and is "loving" the Newcastle lifestyle.

On the field has proven more frustrating.

Martin was sidelined for the first four rounds of W-League with ankle and knee injuries but finally made her debut in Jets colours in a 2-0 loss to Sydney at McDonald Jones Stadium on Sunday.

"It's good to be back out there," Martin said. "It's hard coming to a new team and copping a few injuries, but everyone has been so good.

"From here I just want to build on my fitness and really start working together with other players. I know I put a few through balls when someone was looking for feet, so it's all about that chemistry out there."

Deans had no hesitation in throwing Martin straight into the starting line-up despite her lack of game time.

"She did well," Deans said. "She was probably a little bit off the pace of the game but she's missed five weeks.

"But I knew what she's like, that's why I brought her here. I know what we're going to get from her every time she plays and that's lots of commitment and effort and good attitude."

The Jets, who are sixth on the league ladder and three points off the top four, have the bye this weekend.

Their next match is against the Roar in Brisbane on January 29.