The Sandhurst Diocese announced on Thursday it would be exploring new governing models, following recommendations from the Royal Commission into Institutional Child Sexual Abuse.

Sandhurst Catholic Education Office director Paul Desmond said the decision to act was timely.

"The Bishop's words around a review of the governing model is very appropriate," Mr Desmond said.

"A broad review is very sensible and it's important that we do so in a timely manner without rushing towards changes."

Mr Desmond said the Catholic Education Office was focused on achieving what was best for students, principals and parents in the Sandhurst region.

Read more: Bishop Shane Mackinlay to review governance structure of schools in Catholic Diocese of Sandhurst

It comes amid reports parish priests in the Archdiocese of Melbourne will lose their power to appoint principals, employ staff, and sign off on financial statements.

Mr Desmond said a similar change in the Sandhurst region would not affect the way many schools are currently governed.

"It sounds like a significant change but the parish priests already delegate that role to principals," he said. "Principals and the people in my office often make those appointments.

"Parish priests are kept aware but it often lays in the hands of the principals.

"Any governance changes would be just formalising what is already happening. It would not be a significant shift."

The Sandhurst Diocese's new governance model will be developed through engagement with key stakeholders in the community.

The process is expected to take 12 months, with the new model to be finalised by January, 2021.

Mr Desmond said he expected the process to be relatively smooth for the community.

"I think in these conversations, when you communicate effectively, keep stakeholders in the loop, and explain carefully, people generally get it," he said.

Have you signed up to the Bendigo Advertiser's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in central Victoria.