Queensland and Canberra stand out in an analysis of where property buyers are putting their money at the moment.

An analysis of housing finance for both investors and owner-occupiers by Matusik Property Insights shows that Queensland has shown the biggest improvement over the past year - with finance for investment up 25% and owner-resident finance up 19%.

"Queensland's strong employment and population growth is responsible for the state's double showing," Matusik says.

Queensland is the only state to record a big rise in both categories, although Victoria is fairly healthy as well, with finance for property investors up 12% and loans for owner-occupiers up 13%.

Canberra stands out for owner-occupier finance, with a 30% rise in the year to March 2007. "Canberra is strong because it is relatively affordable and the Federal Government has increased its workforce 10% over the past three years," Matusik says.

South Australia isn't performing too badly either, with owner-occupier finance up 9% and investor finance up 16%. "Bright employment prospects in both Victoria and South Australia are giving their housing markets a boost," Matusik says.

Investors have retreated from the Western Australia market, with investor loans down 10% over the year, while the Northern Territory has seen a big decline in loans to owner-residents.

Tasmania is looking a bit sick also, with investor finance down 16% and no change in loans to owner-residents.

NSW continues to show signs of a grudging comeback, with a 6% improvement in loans to owner-residents, but no change in finance to investors.