Hugh has never hosted the event before (although he did host the Tonys) and the choice is a departure for "Oscar" who usually has a comedian hosting the event.
Last year's event was hosted by Jon Stewart, fake news comedian of The Daily Show.
Early reports had linked British comedian Ricky Gervais to the post, filled in previous years by Billy Crystal, Whoopi Goldberg and the late Bob Hope.
Gervais, though, subsequently distanced himself from the role, saying he feared he might not get the "freedom" he would need.
Jackman will be seen as Wolverine in a fourth X-Men film next year
Australian actor Hugh Jackman will be the host of the 2009 Academy Awards, organisers have announced.