In early 1970s Hoffman co-founded an Aboriginal women's refuge in Melbourne, "The Elizabeth Hoffman House". In 1972, she also co-founded the Yorta Yorta Tribal Council, placing a claim over traditional lands. The same year she along with her sister Merle established the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service in Fitzroy, and co-founded the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service along with Alma Thorpe, Bruce McGuinness, and others.
