diff --git a/pyface/ui/qt4/action/action_item.py b/pyface/ui/qt4/action/action_item.py
index 209f76505..d591d8c70 100644
--- a/pyface/ui/qt4/action/action_item.py
+++ b/pyface/ui/qt4/action/action_item.py
@@ -274,6 +274,7 @@ def __init__(self, parent, tool_bar, image_cache, item, controller,
         self.control.setWhatsThis(action.description)
         self.control.setEnabled(action.enabled)
         self.control.setVisible(action.visible)
+        self.control.setShortcut(action.accelerator)
 
         if action.style == 'toggle':
             self.control.setCheckable(True)