Ledger's Oscar given to Williams

Heath Ledger's Oscar will be given to his former fiancée Michelle Williams to keep in trust for their young daughter.

The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences made the announcement to clear up speculation that the prize would be returned to Ledger's family in Australia.

Despite Matilda, 3, being confirmed as the rightful owner, Ledger's father had told reporters that he planned to keep the statue for the foreseeable future, adding that he would pass it on to his granddaughter "down the line".

However, Academy spokesperson Leslie Unger has told the Los Angeles Times that the trophy will be presented to Williams within the next few weeks.

"We expect a representative of the Ledger estate to bring the statuette in tomorrow [or soon thereafter] so that the engraved plate can be affixed," she said. "Soon after that, we expect the statuette [with engraved plate] to be delivered to Michelle Williams."

Under Academy rules, Williams will have ownership of the Oscar until Matilda turns 18.

Ledger was awarded a posthumous best supporting actor award for his role in The Dark Knight at last month's ceremony.