Community food initiatives, including food cooperatives, community gardens, crop-swaps, local food hubs and grassroots food networks, play an important role in strengthening sustainable and equitable food systems(1). However, recent social network analysis of a regional Australian food system found that nutritionists and dietitians were poorly connected to broader food system networks and less likely to participate in community food initiatives(2). Given the emerging role of nutrition professionals in food systems transformation(3), understanding the factors influencing engagement is important. This qualitative study aimed to explore the enablers and barriers influencing nutritionists and dietitians’ engagement in community food initiatives and identify strategies to support greater participation. A qualitative study design was employed using semi-structured, in-depth interviews with Australian nutritionists and dietitians. Participants were recruited using purposive sampling to capture diversity in professional background, career stage and geographic location. Interviews explored participants’ experiences, perspectives and perceived opportunities and challenges related to engaging with community food initiatives. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using a two-stage thematic analysis approach. An inductive approach was initially used to generate codes and develop themes grounded in participant experiences. Themes were subsequently reviewed and mapped deductively against an adapted socioecological model incorporating four levels: personal capacity and readiness, local community food system context, professional role and workplace conditions, and broader structural and workforce systems. A total of n = 10 nutritionists and/or dietitians participated. All participants were female, with most identifying as nutritionists (n = 6) and having established careers (n = 6). Participants were equally represented from urban (n = 5) and rural/remote (n = 5) locations. Thematic analysis identified interconnected enablers, barriers and potential strategies across all levels of the socioecological model. Participants described limited personal involvement in community food initiatives but expressed strong interest in contributing as local community champions. Enablers included flexibility, public health training, alignment with personal values and opportunities for community engagement. Barriers included competing professional priorities, work–life balance, limited knowledge of local initiatives, uncertainty regarding professional roles and insufficient organisational support. Strategies identified to increase engagement included enhanced food systems education within nutrition and dietetics training, improved mapping of community food initiatives, and workplace structures that recognise food systems activities as part of professional practice. This study provides insight into the complex factors influencing nutritionists and dietitians’ engagement with community food initiatives. Findings suggest that increasing participation requires multi-level approaches that build workforce capability, strengthen local connections and embed food systems approaches within nutrition and dietetics education and practice.