Bromate (BrO3-) and total organobromine (TOBr) formation during ozonation are related, and both are dependent on the conversion of bromide (Br-) to aqueous free bromine (HOBr/OBr-). Currently, however, the extent of bromine formation during ozonation is ill-defined. Furthermore, BrO3- and TOBr formation reactions can be affected by the presence and nature (source and composition) of NOM during ozonation. In recognition of the apparent importance of NOM's influence on DBP formation in the ozonation process, this article: evaluates the composition of NOM isolated from different sources and by different techniques; demonstrates the dependence of BrO3- formation on the source and character of NOM; discusses how NOM affects oxidant (O3 and hydroxyl radical [HO]) concentrations during ozonation; presents HOBr/OBr- formation and disappearance trends in model water samples; and, analyzes the mechanistic role of NOM in BrO3- and TOBr formation. Includes 35 references, tables, figures.