Defeat is not an option.It's the mantra driving Brad Fittler's NSW as they strive to become the first Blues side in 15 years to retain the State of Origin shield.

A Californian man has been killed in a shark attack in Maui, Hawaii.

The bashing death of homeless woman Courtney Herron in suburban Melbourne has prompted a commitment from Canberra to do more to protect women's safety.

Boos once echoed around Suncorp Stadium when polarising playmaker Daly Cherry-Evans ran on to the Maroons' hallowed turf.

The opening State of Origin shots have been fired, with Queensland coach Kevin Walters declaring "war" on NSW by boldly claiming his new-look Maroons will win next week's series opener in Brisbane.

Retired great Greg Inglis may be gone but he has not been forgotten by his beloved Maroons.

An Adelaide teenager who twice hacked into Apple's computer systems has been placed on a good-behaviour bond.

Victoria's mental health sector will get more than $170 million in extra support ahead of a royal commission into the sector.

Keeping women safe, ensuring they have economic opportunities at their fingertips and achieving "genuine" gender equality are goals in the sights of Australia's new minister for women.

Delivery of the national testing of Australia's school students will come in for its own examination after technical issues plagued NAPLAN earlier in the month.