The pair are demanding curbs on coal seam gas exploration in return for their support of the minerals resource rent tax.

The coal seam gas industry has come under fire in recent years as the cause of environmental damage.

Several coal seam gas and underground coal gasification companies have started exploration in the North West with activity underway in the Flinders, Hughenden, Richmond and McKinlay Shires.

Landholders fear the industry could damage the Great Artesian Basin, the region's main water supply.

Mr Windsor wants up to $400 million a year set aside from the tax revenue to fund assessments which would gauge the impact of coal seam gas and other mining practices on farmland.

He also wants legislation to give the Federal Government powers to override the states, which control mining leases.

Mr Oakeshott has backed his colleague's demands.

Greens senator Larissa Water has introduced a similar bill.

Under the proposed laws, mining companies would need to get federal government approval before beginning projects which threaten water resources, such as those which could occur in North West cattle country.