BACKING SUBBIES, BEATING THE BIG BUILDERS

About Us

WE WON'T LEt BUILDERS DECEIVE YOU IN THE SMALL PRINT

Founded in 2023 by James Dorizas, Contract Aware was created to level the playing field between builders and subcontractors. After more than a decade working as a Project Manager and Contracts Manager across Tier 1 and Tier 2 construction in Australia, James saw firsthand how subcontractors are often left exposed by complex contracts, unfair clauses, and aggressive payment practices. He decided to use his experience from “the other side of the fence” to help subcontractors protect themselves and their businesses. Today, Contract Aware is a boutique construction consultancy specialising in contract reviews, commercial advice, and dispute support for subcontractors. We help you understand what you’re signing, manage risk before it turns into a problem, and recover what you’re owed when things go wrong.
What makes us different?

WE SPEAK CONSTRUCTION

We know how head contractors think, where they push risk, and what levers they pull when things get tight. Our clients trust us because we combine real project experience with practical, no-nonsense commercial advice that actually works on site. Whether you need help reviewing a new contract, preparing a payment claim, or navigating a dispute, Contract Aware is here to make sure you’re informed, protected, and paid fairly.

WHY YOU SHOULD WORK WITH US

Improved Risk Management
ENHANCED Negotiation Skills
INCREASED Profitability
BETTER Project Performance
GET STARTED
MEET JAMES
Founder & CEO
“I started Contract Aware because I’ve always backed the little guy, whether it’s in sport or any underdog story. After years working for developers and builders, I saw firsthand how one-sided construction can be and how often subcontractors get pushed around. I used to use those same tricks on their behalf, day in and day out. Subcontractors never had anyone to turn to, while builders had full contract teams and lawyers in their corner. Now, I’m proud to be that person subcontractors can rely on.”
GET IN TOUCH WITH US
Our core values

Collaboration

We work alongside subcontractors, not above them. We’re part of your team, helping you navigate builders’ processes and pressures.

Expertise

We bring real project experience to every job. Our advice is grounded in how construction actually works on site, not just what the contract says.

Clarity

We cut through legal jargon and complexity. Our role is to make contracts, claims, and disputes simple and actionable.

What OUR CLIENTS say

“We got in contact with Contract Aware when we were in a difficult situation with a Builder, James helped us compile contract notices and eventually a claim in which we got paid for taking us from a project facing significant losses to one of financial benefit for the business”
Lindsay (Facade Contractor NSW)
"Contract Aware has helped us handle disputes and respond better to builders' requests and demands. It's best decision I've made for peace of mind!"
Daniel (JD Project Works QLD)

OUR SERVICES

Contract Reviews
Subcontractors, avoid signing contracts that put your cash, time, and reputation on the line. Get clear, expert advice before you sign, so you don’t get caught out by unfair clauses or builder tricks buried in the fine print.
Dispute Resolution
Stuck in a fight over delays, variations or unpaid invoices? We step in with expert advice, draft the right notices, and handle tricky builder comms so you can get it sorted fast, and move on with the job.
Claim Submissions
Need to submit a variation, delay or SoP claim and want to do it right? We build solid, contract-backed claims that give you the best shot at getting paid what you're owed, without the fluff.
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