The Episcopal Standards Commission has appointed an independent investigator to probe the complaints made by clergy and lay people in the Ballarat diocese.

Melbourne QC and diocese chancellor Michael Shand made the announcement at yesterday's synod meeting in Ballarat.

The bishop's representative Vern Robson, who informed The Courier of the investigation, said it was the only way to resolve the difficulties faced in the diocese.

He said it had been a "divisive issue".

"Obviously all parties, which includes the bishop and complainants, are hoping the processes of the church through the ESC can resolve the matter as quickly as possible," Mr Robson said.

Thirteen clergy of the diocese, a number of senior lay people and former clergy of the diocese have lodged complaints against Bishop Hough.

The exact nature of the complaints is confidential under church law, but The Courier understands the complaints are publicly referred to as his management style, and privately called bullying and

harassment.

Earlier this year lawyer Roger Blythman, who is representing the complainants, said the issue was about the way Bishop Hough conducted himself.

He said his clients believed Bishop Hough had breached his legal and pastoral obligations.

Under church law, complaints against bishops are investigated by the ESC.

It can then lay charges to be heard by the church's Special Tribunal.

The tribunal comprises senior clerics and lawyers and can counsel a bishop and ultimately have him removed.

Bishop Hough yesterday welcomed the investigation.

"It's part of the same process, it's nothing new, it's taken them this long to get around (to it)," he said.

"People will be people."

He was last night attending the 2009 Rural Ministry Conference.

The conference will discuss issues including how the diocese can work better with the poor and needy, changes in the diocese, and how to engage better with youth.

The synod meeting, normally held over two days, was adjourned until later this year due to the conference.