A guide to the Epstein files for people who don't have all day.

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For years, the so-called Epstein files have been the subject of speculation, believed to be the key to exposing the conduct of convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein — as well as his connections to powerful figures around the world.

On January 30, those files were finally released. The US Department of Justice published around 3.5 million pages of material tied to its investigations into Epstein, following a congressional mandate requiring all unclassified records to be made public.

If you're seeing the Epstein files everywhere and want to understand what people are actually talking about, this is where to start. We're breaking down exactly what has been released, which high-profile names appear in the documents, and what the files do – and don't – reveal.

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Why were the Epstein files finally made public?

After years of criticism over secrecy surrounding the Epstein records, their release was mandated by the Epstein Files Transparency Act, passed by the US Congress in late 2025.

The legislation required the Justice Department to publish all unclassified material related to its Epstein investigations by December 19, 2025. The final release took place weeks later, following additional review and redactions.

The documents include emails, calendars, flight logs, photographs, videos, FBI interview notes, warrants and internal investigative material collected over decades, covering the period from Epstein's 2008 conviction in Florida through to his 2019 arrest and death in federal custody.

Federal officials have stressed that being named in the documents does not amount to evidence of criminal conduct.

Which high-profile names appear in the documents?

Public interest in the Epstein files has centred on which powerful figures would appear in the documents, and the release contains references to many. The files include emails, planning documents, calendars and other correspondence involving Epstein and a wide range of influential figures across politics, business and royalty.

In most cases, the material records social contact, proposed meetings or Epstein's own descriptions of relationships, rather than evidence of criminal behaviour.

Bill Gates.

A 2013 draft email written by Epstein, saved but not addressed or sent to Microsoft founder, Bill Gates, alleges the billionaire philanthropist had contracted a sexually transmitted infection from "Russian girls" and requested help obtaining medication.

Epstein wrote that Gates needed "drugs to deal with consequences of sex" and refers to "severe marital problems," as well as facilitating "illicit trysts with married women."

There is no evidence the email was ever sent, or that the claims are true. Gates' representatives have described the allegations as "absolutely false", "absurd" and "defamatory," saying they reflect Epstein's tendency to exaggerate or fabricate claims after relationships deteriorated. Gates has acknowledged meeting Epstein but has denied any wrongdoing.

An undated photograph from Jeffrey Epstein's estate of Bill Gates and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. Image: US Department of Justice.

Elon Musk.

The files include email exchanges between Epstein and X owner, Elon Musk, from 2012 and 2013, showing Epstein repeatedly inviting Musk to visit his private Caribbean island, Little Saint James.

In one 2012 message, the Tesla founder asked Epstein: "What day/night will be the wildest party on your island?" In a later exchange dated Christmas Day 2013, Epstein wrote about a possible visit in early January, to which Musk replied: "When should we head to your island on the 2nd?"

Musk has publicly denied ever travelling to Epstein's island and said his contact with Epstein was limited.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.

Disgraced former prince, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, appears repeatedly in correspondence dated after Epstein's 2008 conviction — contradicting his claim that their relationship had ended.

In one email, Andrew says he would be "delighted" to meet a 26-year-old Russian woman arranged by Epstein.

Another email refers to an invitation for Epstein to attend Buckingham Palace, with Epstein confirming the meeting would be "private and discreet." The files also include photographs of Andrew with an unidentified woman, with dates and locations redacted.

Melania Trump, Prince Andrew, Gwendolyn Beck and Jeffrey Epstein at a party. Image: Getty

Donald Trump.

Trump's name appears frequently across the files, mostly as third-party references, investigative notes and tip-line complaints submitted to authorities, rather than direct contact.

Some documents include unverified allegations made by anonymous sources. Department of Justice (DOJ) officials say the allegations were reviewed and not substantiated. Other references involve media clippings or social context.

Richard Branson.

Emails show Epstein corresponding with Virgin founder Richard Branson about social catch-ups and invitations connected to Necker Island, Branson's private Caribbean property. The correspondence includes discussion of travel and philanthropy. The files do not allege criminal behaviour, and Branson says any association with Epstein was limited and ended years before his arrest.

Bill Clinton.

Former US president, Bill Clinton appears throughout the files, showing he travelled on Epstein's private jet on multiple occasions in the early 2000s, including international trips. The released material does not include direct emails between Clinton and Epstein or evidence of criminal conduct. Clinton has previously acknowledged knowing Epstein and using his aircraft but has denied any wrongdoing.

Bill Clinton poses with a person whose identity has been redacted. Image: US Department of Justice.

Were any Australians named?

Katherine Keating.

Emails show Katherine Keating, daughter of former Australian prime minister Paul Keating, corresponding with Epstein about social engagements.

In one exchange, she suggested bringing her younger sister to a dinner with the convicted paedophile and film director, Woody Allen. The documents suggest Keating made the suggestion after hearing Allen liked "pretty women." The material does not allege illegal activity or misconduct.

Kevin Rudd.

Former prime minister Kevin Rudd's name appears in itinerary-style notes that suggest Epstein anticipated a possible meeting in 2014; however, there is no evidence that any such meeting occurred. Rudd has categorically denied ever meeting Epstein, communicating with him or visiting any of his properties. His representatives have warned against defamatory interpretations of the documents.

Survivors' response.

The release of the Epstein files has been met with mixed reactions. While survivor advocacy groups welcomed the move towards transparency, many expressed concerns about how the material was released and the impact it could have on victims.

In a joint statement, several Epstein survivors and family members of the late Virginia Giuffre said the disclosure risked re-traumatising victims while still failing to deliver accountability.

Advocates also criticised what they described as inconsistent redactions, arguing that while many powerful figures remain shielded from scrutiny, some of the released material risks identifying victims or revealing deeply personal details.

Ultimately, the Epstein files represent the most extensive public record to date of Jeffrey Epstein's communications, planning and global connections. However, they do not provide proof of criminal conduct.

Analysis of the files is ongoing. As it stands, while the release offers a clearer view of Epstein's world, it falls short of delivering the legal reckoning many survivors and observers have long been waiting for.

Feature Image: US Department of Justice.