Heath Ledger's scholarship honour

Sep 26, 2008, 11:00 GMT

(FILE) Australian actor Heath Ledger scholarship honors EPA/CLAUDIO ONORATI

Heath Ledger is set to be honoured by a new scholarship scheme.

The actor - who died of an accidental prescription drugs overdose in January - was previously an ambassador for the Australians in Film (AiF) organisation, and is the inspiration behind The Heath Ledger Scholarship.

The scheme - which will award up to $10,000 and a return airfare to an emerging Australian actor to help them pursue their Hollywood career - is also supported by the late star's family.

Heath's father Kim explained: "We as a family are pleased with the establishment and progress of the AiF scholarship award named in honour of our much loved and generous son, Heath.

"As a result of this scholarship, a talented Australian actor will gain valuable assistance to support their personal goals, and an opportunity for recognition in the very tough US film industry."

Applications for the scholarship, which will be accepted from October 1 to November 28 through www.australiansinfilm.org, will be judged by a five person panel including film director Greg Jordan.

Greg added: "Broke Australian actors in Los Angeles form a tradition that goes all the way back to Errol Flynn. Heath was definitely part of that tradition and this scholarship is something he would have been proud to have his name associated with."