Celibacy not for everyone: archbishop

Young priests must think hard about what a life of celibacy means and consider a career change if they're not cut out for it, a prominent Catholic archbishop says.

The comments from Melbourne Archbishop Denis Hart come after a royal commission found compulsory celibacy for clergy members has been a contributing factor to child sexual abuse.

The child abuse royal commission's final report on Friday recommended celibacy should be voluntary for the clergy to reduce the risk of harm to children.

Archbishop Hart promised to pass on the suggestion to the Holy See in Rome, but pointed out the benefits of celibacy.

"There are real values in celibacy - it is walking with a group, with others, as Christ did," he said.

"That being supported by prayer and by a relationship that is broader than a relationship of marriage."

But he conceded some priests agree to the lifestyle without the capacity to follow through with it.

"It's a difficult thing and something that not everyone can live up to," he told reporters in Melbourne.

"Some undertake celibacy without proper understanding and proper capacity."

Archbishop Hart said it was crucial those training to join the priesthood knew what they were taking on, noting a need for more education in this area.

"And if they can't be really motivated, really sure and really helped, then it's better that they not go forward," he said.

The royal commission found celibacy can cause emotional isolation, loneliness and mental illness, and is a contributing factor to child abuse.

"Based on research we conclude that there is an elevated risk of child sexual abuse where compulsorily celibate male clergy or religious have privileged access to children in certain types of Catholic institutions," the report said.