Oz screen academy bows

RushSYDNEY -- The Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts bowed Thursday in Sydney. The new body, which was set up by the Australian Film Institute, aims to lift the international profile of Oz's screen professionals. Thesp Geoffrey Rush, who is AACTA's founding prexy, said the org would "establish a stamp of success" for local talent. Over half a century ago, the AFI was founded, and since that time our film and television industries have developed beyond our wildest imaginings," Rush said. "Through the timely creation of AACTA, we have a unique opportunity to galvanize the craft and talent this country endlessly produces." Also unveiled at the launch at Sydney's overseas passenger terminal on Sydney Harbour were the new gold-cast AACTA Award statuettes designed by sculptor Ron Gomboc. The inaugural Samsung AACTA Awards will be held in Sydney in January 2012 at the Sydney Opera House. Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com