Ledger family 'thankful' for Globe nod

The family of late actor Heath Ledger have expressed their appreciation for his Golden Globe nomination.

Ledger, who died in January, has been put forward for the best supporting actor prize for his role as the Joker in The Dark Knight.

"We thank the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for honouring Heath's performance in The Dark Knight," Ledger's dad Kim said in a statement to People.

"This nomination is deeply appreciated and is not lost on those of us who continue to love and miss him. We are so proud our boy's work is being recognised in this way."

Earlier this week, Ledger was awarded the best actor accolade from the Australian Film Institute for his turn as the supervillain.