This paper outlines a stylised scheme designed to address the multi-objective decision environment essential for the effective management of the Antarctic marine ecosystem within the requirements of CCAMLR Article II. Eight attributes (purpose, description, variables, driving forces, time horizons, time steps, constraints and data) were identified in an attempt to provide a blueprint for the development of suitable simulations of important Antarctic marine ecosystem interactions and to facilitate the formulation of a suitable decision-making protocol for management purposes.