Goldmining companies are steering clear of the Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) campaign that is being partly funded by Fortescue Metals chief Andrew Forrest.

The decision to resume ads on behalf of junior and mid-tier mining companies comes little more than a month after a truce was called with Prime Minister Julia Gillard.

Northgate Mining, which operat-

es the Fosterville Gold Mine, says the tax ihas little effect on the company.

“The new proposed tax out of the agreement only applies to coal and iron ore, not gold, nickel or copper or other commodities,” group financial controller Robert Dufour said. “From our point of view it’s business as usual.”

Bendigo Mining managing direct-

or Rod Hanson and Greater Bendigo Gold Mines chief executive John Cahill have both said they support the tax in its current form.

Member for Bendigo Steve Gibbons dismissed the AMEC decision as greedy and said the tax would continue as proposed.

“We have a right and they (AMEC) don’t think it’s fair – it’s pretty basic greed.”

Julia Gillard has also dismissed talk of a policy deal after Greens leader Bob Brown revealed plans for the mining tax to be spent on a light rail system.

Bendigo Greens candidate Kym-

berlie Dimozantos said the service would connect all Australians.

“The Greens will expand all forms of transport in regional areas.’’