new to freelance

[mac]

Hi there! i'm interested in freelance job but is quite confuse in starting out.
1)is it possible for a foreigner to get a freelance job? let's say an australian getting a job from us?
2)how they will get paid? is it secure?
3)besides pc and internet, what are other equipment needed to start out freelance? a webcam?
4)is it better to have a part-time job before involving full time freelance?

hope to get info from you all.
thanks.