Greens MP Adam Bandt says the Government's excuse for excluding gold from the mining tax does not wash.

Mr Bandt asked the Treasurer about putting gold in the mining tax in Question Time today.

"Gold is traded on international and local markets. To suggest it can't be taxed because it is mined with other minerals is simply not right", Mr Bandt said.

"Mr Swan's explanation does not wash. His own department recommended gold be in the original mining tax."

"Australia is the world's second biggest gold miner after China. If the government had the courage to stand up to the miners, gold would be in the legislation that will come before Parliament tomorrow."

"We estimate that the inclusion of the gold would generate at least $1.8 billion in revenue over the next decade."

"As I pointed out in Question Time this revenue could easily cover the impact assessments on farming of coal seam gas, something that rural independents are requesting."

"I hope other members of parliament take on board the amendments to ensure gold miners pay their fair share."

Greens MP Adam Bandt will move amendments to include gold in the government's mining tax when it comes before the House.