Mitchell Starc's second wicket of the day - Milinda Siriwardana - helped him become the fastest bowler to take 100 wickets in ODIs.
Kusal Mendis survived three chances, but ended up scoring a crucial half century for Sri Lanka. His wicket brought about a mini-collapse as the advantage was seized by the visitors.
James Faulkner starred with the ball, returning with figures of 4 for 38, which included a double wicket maiden over.
Kusal Mendis celebrates after scoring his half century
Dinesh Chandimal paced his innings brilliantly even as wickets kept falling from the other end.
Kusal Perera departed in the first over after Australia won the toss and elected to field.
In the end, Australia won the first ODI by three wickets and with 19 balls to spare.
Sri Lankan spinners caused a lot of trouble and made a match of the low total.
Aaron Finch (left) and Steve Smith slammed contrasting half centuries. However, both proved equally effective in the context of the match.
Australia began the chase in a quickfire note with Aaron Finch hitting a six off the first over itself. He raced away to a half century when the team's total was only 65.
Dinesh Chandimal was hit on his ribs, but he scored his fifth consecutive half century to help Sri Lanka reach 227 for 8 in their 50 overs. Even in the sapping heat, he ran hard between the wickets.