Shared external laundry – no power to my socket

Hi there – 

I rent an apartment in inner-west Sydney with a shared laundry on the landing.  Each apartment on the floor (there are 3) has its own electricity socket in which to plug your own washing machine/dryer.  However, the electricity socket to my apartment does not work.  I have to run an extension cord from my apartment out to the laundry in order to power my washing machine and dryer, and have been doing so for more than 2 years now… but I'm fed up with this!  Not only is it annoying, it is a tripping hazard and with a toddler and a baby getting around it's just dangerous.  

The real estate agent says it's a strata problem.  The owners' corp say it's the owner's problem because renovations 15 years ago in the apartment led to the problem.  I have been told by the owners' corp secretary that previous tenants had their washing machine in the kitchen, and I should do the same! 

I can't remember if the apartment was advertised with an external/shared laundry or not.  What should I do?  I am also waiting to sign a new lease – should I wait till I've signed the lease before bringing this up again?

All advice appreciated!