THE Sydney Harbour Bridge has become a symbol to the nation's indigenous population on Australia Day, 225 years after the First Fleet arrived.

For the first time, the Aboriginal and Australian Flags have flown together atop the bridge on the day of the nation's founding.

Both flags were slowly raised on the bridge on Saturday around 8am (AEDT).

The historic event was commemorated with a short ceremony and a flag dance by the Jannawi dance company.

NSW Governor Marie Bashir recognised the impact of the arrival of the First Fleet led by Captain Arthur Phillip.

"He recognised that they were intruders and that their life would change," Ms Bashir said during a short speech.

She said despite the ongoing challenges to indigenous Australians, young Aboriginals continue to achieve higher goals in education and career endeavours.

"We are walking together, I believe, as one people," she said.

NSW Aboriginal Affairs Minister Victor Dominello said the flag-raising event was another step towards reconciliation.

"I'm not saying that it's perfect, there is still a long way to go," Mr Dominello told reporters after the ceremony.

"But we are definitely on the right path.

"And if we continue on this path, we'll eventually reach that destination of parity.

"We are a great country but I don't think we will realise our true potential greatness until we get that parity."

Originally published as Aboriginal flag raised on Harbour Bridge