The state’s year 9 boys have recorded their worst performance in NAPLAN testing of grammar and punctuation since tests began more than a decade ago while the latest annual snapshot reveals a growing crisis in our regional and remote schools. 

A mafia-style standover cartel calling itself “The Commission” has warned Sydney drug dealers if they drop the price of cocaine, “we will go after your families”. 

A crackdown on tax cheats will try to claw back some of the $33.4bn individuals and dodgy businesses are estimated to owe the federal government. 

And in sport, Italy captain Nathan Brown has opened the door for a fairytale return to Wests Tigers as he prepares to head back to Sydney and confront the lingering uncertainty over his future at Parramatta. 

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