The job of foreign minister is one of the most coveted in any government. Alexander Downer has held the job throughout the Howard years, but it has never been more gruelling and controversial than it is now.Australian Story producer Belinda Hawkins gained unprecedented access to those at the centre of power here, in Washington, and in Indonesia. To prepare the two-part documentary, Australian Story filmed behind the scenes with Mr Downer, his family and his entourage during a tumultuous few weeks that ended in disaster in an Indonesian field when Garuda flight 200 crashed killing 21 people including five Australians. Some of those who died included journalists and officials who had been working closely with Mr Downer and who were well known to him. The documentary observes the Minister as he deals with the unfolding tragedy.
—Australian Story