I got a reply from the RAM, they want $200 to look at it.
Thank you for contacting the Royal Australian Mint.
There are no records of such a 1979 10 cent coin. Without examining your coin it is not possible to provide a conclusion. There may be a number of explanations for what appears to be a copper coloured coin and the Mint would need to establish the authenticity of the object before commenting.
The Mint offers a service to the public for authentication of Australian decimal coins that it has produced. Each item must be accompanied by a payment of A$200 (includes GST). Should you wish to have an item authenticated, it will be examined at the Mint using a variety of inspection methods. A decision concerning the coins authenticity will be given in the form of a letter but this will not include a grading of the coin. If you would like to have this object examined for authentication please contact us to discuss arrangements.