The Aboriginal Flag is a step closer to permanently flying on the Sydney Harbour Bridge with a $25 million commitment in the 2022-23 NSW Budget.
The funding will allow for the permanent installation of a third flagpole to fly the Aboriginal Flag above the Sydney Harbour Bridge by the end of this year.
NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said flying the Aboriginal Flag alongside the Australian and NSW State Flag was an important gesture, which is part of a $401 million investment in this year’s Budget to prioritise Closing the Gap initiatives.
“Our Indigenous history should be celebrated and acknowledged so young Australians understand the rich and enduring culture that we have here with our past,” Mr Perrottet said.
“Installing the Aboriginal flag permanently on the Sydney Harbour Bridge will do just that and is a continuation of the healing process as part of the broader move towards reconciliation.
“We are making significant investments, adopting new approaches and taking practical steps to Close the Gap and improve outcomes for Aboriginal people across NSW.”
Minister for Metropolitan Roads Natalie Ward said the Sydney Harbour Bridge is an appropriate landmark for the Aboriginal Flag to be displayed alongside the Australian and NSW flags.
“Bounded by the Countries of Cammeraygal and Gadigal clan groups, the bridge connects our city, north and south, providing a crucial link to thousands of commuters and sightseers every day,” Mrs Ward said.
“This is a momentous occasion in NSW history and whilst installing the third flagpole is complex, I look forward to seeing all three flags flying on the bridge by the end of 2022.”
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Ben Franklin said permanently flying the Aboriginal flag on the Sydney Harbour Bridge is an important part of acknowledging Aboriginal people and their rich cultures.
“I am so excited we are one step closer to the Aboriginal flag finally being flown on the Sydney Harbour Bridge permanently, 365 days a year, 7 days a week,” Mr Franklin said.
“We are incredibly proud to be working in partnership with Aboriginal stakeholders on both symbolic and practical reconciliation.”
This week the NSW Government announced a $401 million investment over four years to prioritise Closing the Gap and improve outcomes for Aboriginal people across the state.
The flagpoles are about 20m high, the same as a six-storey building, and the flags themselves are approximately 9m by 4.5m, requiring an attachment strong enough to withstand all weather conditions.
Transport for NSW and Aboriginal Affairs will continue engagement with key Aboriginal stakeholders in the lead up to this significant milestone.
