I think thast Etihad is placing the applications on hold at the moment only because they do not have enough facilities like the training academy and crew accomodation! they are a young company and as soon as everything is built up they will recruit like they have never seen Cabin Crew before:-)
I would only apply through their website as soon as you see an avertised assessment day in a city which is the most closest to yours!
Go for Emirates Airline! Give it a try see!