This important chapter is divided into three sections. The first one reports the results of previous studies and projects done for or under the auspices of the Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service. The geology, physiology, and climate of the region, and their effect on the site is discussed; the styles, techniques, and materials of the rock paintings, including the properties of the pigments used by the aborigines, and the state of deterioration of the sites are reported. Water damage is rated the most serious cause of damage, followed by that caused by insects, vertebrate animals, vegetation, fungi, and man. Each is assessed, and the recommended conservation measures are evaluated in turn, including the use of surface consolidants and silcrete skins. In the second section the geologic and geomorphic settings of the sites are described in relation to the condition of the art. The composition of samples collected for laboratory analyses, and their significance in interpreting site environments are also described. The third section, on the geochemical and weathering environments establishes the conclusion that the geochemical alteration of pigments is directly or indirectly due to water, and the soluble or insoluble minerals it deposits over rock surfaces. A discussion and a list of recommendations close this chapter. -- AATA