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This paper summarises the historical development of point -based monitoring systems in Central Australia and the soil and vegetation changes that have been observed. Three main point -based monitoring systems have been implemented on pastoral lands since the 1960s, each using slightly different methods. The geographical spread of sites varies across the region, as does the frequency of recording. In combination with seasonal effects, this makes it somewhat difficult to build a picture of what changes have occurred on Central Australian pastoral lands. Recent results would suggest that there has been a general stabilisation of soils, an increase in perennial vegetation cover and widespread establishment of woody species. It is apparent that buffel grass has recently colonised areas where it has not previously been recorded.