The Protector of Aborigines was the government officer responsible for overseeing contact and relationships with Aboriginal people in the Northern Territory. While the Northern Territory was under South Australian control, Protectors reported to the responsible minister of the South Australian Government through the Government Resident of the Northern Territory. At times the Medical Officer for the Northern Territory (previously called the Colonial Surgeon for the Northern Territory, or the Medical Officer, Palmerston) also acted as the Protector of Aborigines.