What steps do you take to make it look like they are a contractor? Also, would you recommend having a lawyer draft the contract agreement, or is adapting a template good enough?
I think you will be fine, it certainly seems reasonable to contract with a local consultant rather than hire someone. I am definitely not an expert. Yes I would recommend some advice from a lawyer. I can give you the details of my Australian lawyer if you like, they are used to working with startups.